BRUXISM

Although they are used extensively on a daily basis, the masticatory muscles, like the vast majority of our muscles, react to constant overactivity: they become sensitive, even painful. Many people grind or clench their teeth while they sleep and/or during the day. In these people, the contraction of these muscles can be up to 20 times more intense than in people who do not usually do so. This muscular hyperactivity, over time, can trigger symptoms such as headaches and muscle contractions in the neck, shoulders, and back.

As a result, dentists often notice excessive tooth wear, as well as joint problems in the jaw.

• Bruxism refers to the grinding of teeth (eccentric bruxism) or clenching of the jaws (centric bruxism) when it is frequent and involuntary.