Bruxism (teeth grinding/clenching)

Issues related to dental physiotherapy:

• Diagnosis and assessment – a dental physiotherapist, working with a dentist, assesses facial and neck muscle tension and the patient's posture. Incorrect posture or muscle tension can contribute to the occurrence of bruxism and intensify its symptoms.
• Manual techniques – physiotherapy includes massages of the facial muscles, including the masseter, temporal, and submandibular muscles. These techniques help reduce muscle tension and improve the function of the temporomandibular joint.
• Temporomandibular joint mobilization – special mobilization techniques help improve joint mobility and reduce pain. They also allow for better alignment of the mandible and maxilla, which can reduce bruxism symptoms.
• Relaxation exercises – patients are recommended relaxation exercises for facial and neck muscles, which help relieve stress-induced tension. Some techniques include controlled breathing and mandibular muscle stretching.
• Habit and awareness training – bruxism is often associated with stress and habitual muscle tension. A physiotherapist can help the patient identify and reduce daily tension, teaching self-control and relaxation techniques.
• Postural therapy – poor posture can affect the musculoskeletal system, including the temporomandibular joint. Posture correction, strengthening of neck and back muscles, and improving workplace ergonomics can be significant in the treatment of bruxism.
• Collaboration with other specialists – a dental physiotherapist often works with a dentist, orthodontist, psychologist (in the case of stress as a factor triggering bruxism), and a speech therapist if there are speech or mandibular function issues.

Benefits of dental physiotherapy:

• Reduction of facial, head, and neck pain
• Improvement of the temporomandibular joint function
• Reduction of muscle tension
• Preventing the progression of tooth damage