Teeth Grinding

Symptoms

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, usually occurs only during sleep. It is an involuntary habit of which most people are unaware, unless the dentist or someone sleeping close by notices it. Even mild cases of bruxism can have serious consequences in the long term. Grinding causes the teeth to wear down and the gums to recede. Eventually it can cause the teeth to loosen and, in severe cases, it can cause jaw pain the next morning and while eating. Children often grind their teeth involuntarily. This condition also occurs during a fever or a seizure.

Causes

Grinding the teeth at night is often a subconscious response to unassimilated aggressions, fears or anxieties. It can also be caused by a physical problem, where the bite is not straight and needs to be adjusted, or if a crown is too high. Alcohol will aggravate an existing problem. Mouth guards are available from the dentist to prevent tooth damage, although these do not necessarily resolve the habit. In some instances, adequate calcium and pantothenic acid help prevent this condition. Hypoglycemia can also trigger bruxism and, in some cases, mercury leakage from dental fillings may be a possible cause of tooth grinding. Parasitic infections will also cause teeth grinding.

Nutrition

An increase of calcium in the diet will help control involuntary muscle movements. Dairy products are good sources of calcium, but they must be taken with magnesium-rich foods, such as whole grains and figs mixed with milk in a muesli, for the calcium to be assimilated. Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is needed for proper muscle function. Foods rich in pantothenic acid are nutritional yeast, whole grains, legumes and organ meats.

Nutritional Supplements

The minerals calcium and magnesium correct poor muscle function and maintain a calm,
controlled nervous system. Vitamins C and B complex are also recommended to help the body cope with the stress that causes teeth grinding. Calcium and vitamin B5 are particularly important in the treatment of teeth grinding.

Daily dosages:

Calcium, 1,000 mg

Magnesium, 500 mg

Vitamin B complex, 50 mg twice daily

Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, 1,000 mg

Vitamin B5, 25 mg twice daily

Herbal Remedies

The tension causing teeth grinding can be due to a vitamin deficiency or hypoglycemia, both of which herbs can remedy.

Stinging nettle leaves, horsetail and watercress juice therapies are excellent for supplying the body with calcium. Take 1 tbsp. of juice from a single herb or a combination of all four for a better effect, three times daily for two to four weeks.

In the case of low adrenal function, seen in people with hypoglycemia, kelp will help to regulate the glands. As a juice, take 1 tbsp. three times daily.

To relieve tension and soothe the nerves, drink hot teas of hops, passion flower, peppermint, fennel or lemon balm. Add 1 cup of boiling water to 1 tsp. of herbs, steep for ten minutes, strain and drink 3 cups daily.

Homeopathy

For teeth grinding caused by emotional problems, constitutional treatment is recommended. Otherwise, take one of the following in the 6c strength three times daily for up to five days for grinding during the day. For teeth grinding during sleep, take one dose before bed for five consecutive nights. Consult an experienced homeopath for recurring or persistent problems.

Take Phytolacca for a strong desire to clench the teeth, especially in children.

Zinc is used for grinding that causes bleeding gums and loose teeth.

Take Arsenicum for teeth grinding during sleep, especially between midnight and 2 AM.

Tissue Salts

Teeth grinding is usually a symptom of a larger problem which needs to be addressed before considering tissue salts.

External/Physical Therapies

If teeth grinding is due to tension and stress, take time to relax and exercise regularly by walking, cycling or swimming outdoors.

Relaxing massage, especially on the neck area, helps relieve tension.

Deep-breathing exercises are excellent for stimulating the glandular system.

Other Suggestions

Do not eat sugar before going to bed.

For subconscious, unresolved problems, seek help from a counselor.

Use an occlusal splint, if necessary, to help correct the problem.

Available Brand Name Products

Nutritional Supplements

Calcium and Magnesium Citrate

(Natural Factors)

Herbal Remedies

Horsetail Leaves (Flora)

Salus Herbal Calcium/Magnesium Liquid (Flora)

Salus Salusan (Flora)

Valerian Root Extract (Natural Factors)

Herbal Calm (Nature’s Herbs)

Hops-Valerian Combination

(Nature’s Herbs)

Norwegian Kelp (Nature’s Herbs)

Silica-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Valerian-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Homeopathy

Bach Flower Remedies (Bach-Karooch Ltd)