Stridor dentium, also commonly referred to as bruxism, is a medical term used to describe the involuntary habit of grinding, clenching, or gnashing of teeth. It is a condition characterized by the grinding of teeth, especially during sleep or periods of stress.
The term "stridor dentium" is derived from Latin, with "stridor" meaning a harsh, high-pitched sound and "dentium" referring to teeth. This name appropriately describes the audible grinding noise that can often be heard when individuals suffering from bruxism clench or grind their teeth.
Bruxism can occur during both waking hours and sleep, though nighttime grinding is more common and often goes unnoticed by the individual. The condition can be caused by various factors, including stress, anxiety, malocclusions (improper alignment of the teeth), or as a side effect of certain medications.
While occasional teeth grinding may not cause significant harm, persistent and untreated bruxism can lead to various dental and health issues. Over time, it can wear down tooth enamel, cause tooth sensitivity, lead to jaw pain, headaches, and even result in damage to the temporomandibular joints (TMJ). Therefore, treatment options for stridor dentium typically focus on addressing the underlying causes, such as stress management techniques, dental interventions like mouthguards or orthodontic treatment, and in severe cases, medication or therapy may be recommended.
Overall, stridor dentium or bruxism is a condition characterized by the habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, often resulting in various dental and health problems if left unaddressed.
