Teeth grinding ( Bruxism )

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.

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.

Supplements and herbs

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.

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.

What else you can do

• 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.
• Do not eat sugar before going to bed.

How much to take

• 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

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