Bruxism is a disorder characterized by involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth, particularly at night. It can lead to a variety of dental complications, such as tooth wear, tooth fracture, facial pain or headaches. While the main treatment for bruxism is usually dentistry, some patients also turn to osteopathy to relieve secondary symptoms and improve their general well-being.
Reminder of jaw anatomy
The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is the joint connecting the mandible (lower jaw) to the temporal bone of the skull (located in front of the ear). This joint is responsible for the jaw movements involved in chewing, speaking and opening and closing the mouth. We use this joint every day, so it's important that movements are smooth and pain-free.
In addition to the two bony surfaces, the joint consists of a capsule surrounding the bones, lubricated by synovial fluid. Inside the joint is a disc, a piece of cartilage that separates pressure evenly across the joint during mouth movements. Several ligaments support the TMJ, reinforcing its stability, and numerous muscles are involved to assist movement (such as the temporalis, masseter and pterygoid muscles).
Understanding bruxism
Bruxism is a common disorder that can affect people of all ages. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, dental malocclusion (misalignment of teeth), sleep disorders, etc. People suffering from bruxism clench their teeth repeatedly, which can have harmful consequences for their oral health and have a negative impact on their daily lives.
Common symptoms of bruxism include teeth grinding, excessive tooth wear leading to sensitive, cracked or even fractured teeth, or facial pain (in the jaw, temples, facial muscles, ...). Many patients also complain of headaches, often caused by the muscular contraction generated by teeth clenching. Finally, patients complain of fatigue, as nocturnal bruxism tends to disrupt their nights.
It's essential to consult a dentist if you suspect you're suffering from bruxism. An oral health professional can diagnose the condition of your teeth, determine its causes and suggest a suitable treatment plan (such as occlusal splints) to prevent tooth damage and relieve symptoms.
The osteopath's role in treating bruxism
Although osteopathy is not the primary treatment for bruxism, it is a second-line therapy that has shown positive evidence in the management of bruxism. The osteopath contributes to the management of bruxism by reducing stress and, above all, by reducing tension in the muscles of the face, jaw and neck. This helps to reduce the frequency and intensity of bruxism in many cases. The osteopath will also give you advice on posture, relaxation, stress management, lifestyle habits, etc., which can be useful in reducing the triggers of bruxism. Finally, the osteopath can work in collaboration with other health professionals to develop a comprehensive and effective treatment plan.
With his holistic approach, the osteopath will also intervene on other parts of the body such as the head, cervicals and dorsal vertebrae, as well as on the entire muscular and fascial system of the face and neck, in order to treat the repercussions of bruxism on the body.
Conclusion on bruxism and osteopathy
In conclusion, if you suffer from bruxism, it's essential to first consult a dentist to assess the condition of your teeth and discuss dental treatment options. If you're looking for complementary approaches to relieve the pain and muscle tension associated with bruxism, you may wish to consult an osteopath. Be sure to discuss your symptoms and medical history with your osteopath so that he or she can provide the most effective and appropriate treatment for you.
Athina De Vogel
Osteopath D.O
2 rue Alexis de Tocqueville
78000 Versailles
