It is estimated that bruxism can affect up to 20% of the population. This is when we unconsciously clench our jaw and cause our teeth to grind. Well, the use of neuromodulators to combat bruxism is being studied. How? Today we tell you everything.
Bruxism usually occurs due to stressful situations, especially at night, but also during the day unconsciously. This occurs when we contract the muscles of the jaw, so the most common thing is that we feel discomfort in the mouth, and even in the temples.
How neuromodulators can help fight bruxism
When we suffer bruxism, we may notice some oral complications such as greater sensitivity in the teeth or even dental fissures. Generally, a custom-made splint is usually made to protect the teeth from the pressure we generate. However, many people continue to feel discomfort in the head.
As an alternative or complement to the splint, the injection of neuromodulators is being tested in this type of patient with the aim of reducing muscle discomfort. It is proposed as a good alternative for those people who, for whatever reason, cannot use a splint, such as an allergy to the material.
The injection of neuromodulators into the temporal and masseter muscles generates partial paralysis of them. In other words, it reduces the force with which these muscles can contract, relieving or eliminating bruxism.
Although this treatment could be an important advance, much more time and studies are certainly needed to demonstrate its effectiveness in the short and long term. In any case, at Clínica Bajo we consider it to be an important step, especially for those people who suffer severe discomfort from bruxism. We will remain attentive to any progress.
