Bruxism, TMJ and Sleep Apnoea

Facial pain and TMJ pain are becoming more prevalent, particularly among younger patients. Daily teeth grinding leads to chronic pain, fractures, and cracks, reducing the quality of life. Teeth grinding, jaw pain and sleep problems can sometimes be related.

Bruxism

The involuntary grinding, gnashing or clenching of teeth is medically known as bruxism. It is an extremely destructive disease and is explained by an improper jaw function.

Causes of Bruxism:

Psychological causes such as anxiety or stress.
Physical causes such as an uneven biting surface or misaligned teeth.
People diagnosed with sleep apnoea grind their teeth during sleep, which triggers the brain as an alert response to open up the airways and allow more oxygen into their bodies.

Symptoms of Bruxism:

Most people are unaware that they grind their teeth until informed by their partners or advanced symptoms like these arise:

Flat, worn-out or damaged teeth and restorations (fractured/chipped/loose teeth or restorations)
Painful or sensitive teeth
Pain or stiffness in the jaw
Headache, ear ache or face pain
Intense jaw clenching

Teeth grinding and children

It is common for children between the ages of 2 and 9 to grind their teeth and experience snoring. However, around two-thirds of these children will grow out of these issues by the age of 9, as their airways develop and they are able to breathe better.

TMJ Disorder

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a small hinge joint located on either side of the jaw that enables the mouth to open and close. It is essential for various activities such as eating, drinking, and speaking. When issues arise that affect its function, it is known as TMJ disorder.

Causes of TMJ Disorder:

Teeth grinding or clenching that put strain on the joints
Crooked teeth or a misaligned bite
Injuries to the jaw or mouth
Arthritis and other joint conditions

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder:

TMJ disorder can cause various symptoms that may not seem related to the jaw joint. Some of the symptoms include:

Headache
Facial pain
Dizziness
Clicking or popping sensation in the jaw
Difficulty opening and closing the mouth or jaw-locking
Difficulty biting, chewing, and/or swallowing
Earache
Ringing in the ears
Numbness in the arms and/or fingers

Treatment options for Bruxism and TMJ Disorder:

Medications such as muscle relaxants
Nightguards and customised oral appliances
Bite-realignment appliances
Orthodontic treatment, such as Invisalign to correct uneven and/or misaligned bite
Techniques for handling stress
Jaw and bite therapies
Neuromuscular dentistry including jaw exercises
Restorative dental care
Jaw surgery (in severe cases)

Custom nightguards can relieve bruxism and TMJ symptoms by preventing teeth from touching during sleep, which may also help stabilise the jaw over time.

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is a disorder that occurs when the airways are blocked, leading to interrupted breathing and a decrease in the amount of oxygen that reaches the body. This can result in several serious health conditions. If you experience frequent interruptions to your sleep due to OSA, you may not feel fully rested during the day and may experience headaches and fatigue. If left untreated, OSA can lead to a variety of health complications over time.

Symptoms of OSA:

Snoring or breathing loudly during sleep
Waking up suddenly in the night
Waking up with headaches in the morning
Feeling tired or irritable during the day
Having trouble with memory or concentration

Treatment options for OSA:

If you are suspected of having OSA, we may refer you to a sleep specialist who can diagnose your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatments like these:

Wearing a custom-made oral appliance. Oral appliances for mild to moderate sleep apnoea are designed to hold the throat open and prevent it from being blocked. This could help you to breathe uninterrupted during sleep.
Changing sleep habits/postures
Avoiding alcohol in the evenings
Use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)
Surgery to remove the airway obstruction

Review

In a world where middle grade rom-coms often tread familiar ground, Courtesy of Cupid stands out with its charming take on young love and friendship. Erin and Trevor are characters you can’t help but root for; their interactions are filled with humor and touching moments. This book captures the awkwardness of adolescence beautifully, making it relatable for readers navigating their own friendship dynamics and romantic interests.

The story's pacing is spot on, keeping readers engaged with a perfect blend of humor and heartfelt moments. The magical elements add a whimsical touch, enhancing the main themes of adventure and growth without overshadowing the characters' personal journeys. It's refreshing to see how the magical ability of the twins is wrapped around their emotional struggles and triumphs, creating a rich narrative tapestry.

Erin and Trevor’s adventures reveal the vastness of the young adult experience: love rivals, support from friends, and the bittersweet nature of growing up. The narrative does not shy away from the competitive nature of friendships, particularly when love is involved. This creates a compelling tension that draws readers in, keeping them invested in how relationships evolve.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone looking for an engaging romantic comedy that reflects the trials and joys of young adulthood. With a solid dose of magic sprinkled in, Courtesy of Cupid delivers a satisfying blend of fun and emotional depth, sure to resonate with its audience.

Content Notes

Courtesy of Cupid dives deep into several engaging themes, making it not just a simple romantic comedy but a thoughtful exploration of adolescence. The duality of rivalry and friendship plays a crucial role throughout the narrative. Both Erin and Trevor face external challenges that test their bonds, showcasing how friendships can evolve when confronted with love interests.

The book's magical elements provide a unique framework through which the characters navigate their experiences. For example, Erin’s struggles with her romantic feelings for Trevor juxtaposed against their rivalry adds a layer of complexity, allowing readers to enjoy the fun of magical mishaps while also reflecting on serious topics like self-identity and acceptance.

Diversity is also a prominent theme, as the story features a rich array of characters that enrich the plot. The representation of different backgrounds serves as an avenue for character development, allowing readers to connect with each character on various levels. Each element of the story reinforces the importance of understanding and embracing differences, a vital message in today's society.

Moreover, this coming-of-age story embodies the growth that comes from navigating personal challenges. Readers see Erin and Trevor not just as young people in a fantastical adventure but as relatable teens facing both internal and external conflicts as they pursue their desires for love and friendship. This book is a perfect pick for those seeking a narrative that balances entertainment with meaningful life lessons.

Representation

In Courtesy of Cupid, character representation plays an essential role in making the narrative relatable and engaging. Erin and Trevor, as protagonists, embody the complexities of young adulthood, grappling not only with their magical abilities but also with their evolving friendships and romantic interests. This dual focus on personal growth and relational dynamics is what makes the story resonate with its target audience.

The story presents a diverse cast of characters that enrich the plot and offer various perspectives on friendship and rivalry. The inclusion of characters from different backgrounds adds depth to the narrative, allowing readers to explore topics like empowerment and identity. With the presence of a Multicultural Leadership Club within the story, the book highlights the importance of community and representation in young adult fiction.

Erin's relationship with her friends showcases the importance of supportive bonds, while also reflecting the competitive nature that often exists among adolescents. This nuanced portrayal of friendships highlights the significance of empathy and collaboration, reinforcing the idea that differences can unite rather than divide. The book handles complex themes of loyalty, love rivalries, and the trials of growing up with grace and sensitivity.

Overall, the representation found in Courtesy of Cupid illuminates the richness of diverse experiences in literature. Incorporating themes of love, magic, and the challenges of adolescence, the narrative offers not just entertainment but also valuable insights into the journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

6 days ago