Hypnotherapy for Bruxism
Bruxism is a condition which includes grinding, clenching and/or gnashing of teeth unconsciously. This happens throughout the day or often when asleep.
It is one of the symptoms of stress. Although not dangerous in itself, (unlike high blood pressure) it can lead to permanent dental damage. Therefore it leads to a variety of unpleasant side effects such as headaches and jaw pain.
The conventional treatment for Bruxism, through one’s dentist, is mouth guards and splints. Most splints work by ensuring the back teeth are separated and this protects the teeth from the pressure of clenching.
Solution focused therapy for Bruxism
The solution-focused aspect of bruxism is very much focused on changing the anxiety that drives it. Then I look for alternative ways of dealing with it. Focusing on the goals for therapy and helping the sufferer create a plan of action that changes the habit.
Hypnotherapy for Bruxism
We don’t treat the bruxism itself per se, but the stress that is making the person clench their teeth. Tightening muscles and clenching of fists and teeth are results of the fight or flight not taken into action. So all the tension goes to the muscles, including the face.
Working on reducing stress, and being more mindful of our bodies. Being aware of how our posture is affecting us, we work on relaxation and changing our behaviour either to rid ourselves of the stressor or to change the way we react or feel about the stressors. Suggestions can be used to change behaviours, so when a person is not paying attention, the subconscious can allow the jaw to relax.
Mindfulness for Bruxism
Mindfulness can help just be in the moment, giving oneself some space to remove yourself from the stressors. Concentrating on breathing techniques and mindful exercises can reduce anxiety.
Case study in using hypnotherapy for Bruxism
Thomas Dowd of Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, USA published a case study into Nocturnal Bruxism and Hypnotherapy in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis in 2013.
He cited that in 2000 Simon and Lewis had conducted some experiments using biofeedback and comparing against hypnosis. They discovered patients treated with hypnosis showed an average 27% decrease in pain scores. As a result, they discussed evidence “indicating that a carefully constructed hypnotic induction with posthypnotic suggestions for symptom control would be more effective than general relaxation.”
Tricky relationship
In Dowd’s case study on a woman A.B., he discovered she had a tricky relationship with both her mother and husband. Not only did he use hypnosis but also CBT. She had 6 sessions in total and the treatment was a success. Consequently, at a follow-up a year later she reported that her jaw pain had not returned relationships had improved, and she was planning on doing a degree. Dowd concluded that she had demonstrated the pattern of psychological symptoms noted in other literature, that bruxers were prone to anxiety and stress.
See the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis