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The image shows cycle of obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is responsible for teeth grinding (bruxism) in many cases. [Image used under Creative Commons License from Wikimedia]
Snoring is usually considered a result of being overweight in adults. But, in kids too, snoring can occur. It is linked to sleep disorders, and should not be ignored. Your kid’s overall health can be deeply affected by snoring. For example, sleep disorders can cause a lack of oxygen in the brain and this can cause teeth grinding. Finding out the reasons for snoring in a child is important before they cause serious health issues. If your child sleeps with mouth open or suffers from teeth grinding, you shouold consult a doctor to find the reasons for snoring.
People with bruxism grind their teeth, which wears down the surface. Once tooth wear progresses through the enamel layer, the exposed dentin layer is softer and more vulnerable to wear and tooth decay. The image shows anatomy of human tooth decay and tooth loss. Tooth decay is the breakdown of teeth due to acids made by bacteria. The bacteria present in the mouth, acid formed by them, food debris left, and the saliva in the mouth combines to form plaque that sticks to the teeth. Presence of acids in plaque dissolves the enamel surface of the teeth and leads to the formation of holes in the teeth which are referred to as cavities.
Teeth grinding can cause many problems such as local muscular pain, headaches, loss of tooth structure, gum recession, loose teeth, shortening of teeth, sensitivity, cracked and broken teeth, damage to the bone structure of your jaw joint with temporomandibular joint syndrome, and facial changes.
The image shows a grind guard on a custom-made tooth model.It is used against excessive wear caused by bruxism.
A close up view of dental occlusion molars teeth is shown in the image. Your dentist can examine the occlusion and find out how chewing forces, or those forces that occur when your teeth come together, could cause a breakdown of teeth, gums, muscles and joints.
Common tooth disease: Sensitive teeth, caries, calculus, gingivitis, periodontitis and bad breath.