Parafunction or Protective Function: How Bruxism May Be Related to Sleep Apnea, What to Look For and What to do About It

For decades we have blamed grinding and clenching of the teeth on stress and malocclusion. While certainly emotional stress and occlusal factors can play a role in the etiology of bruxism, it is becoming clear that in many cases, the patient’s obstructive airway issues are a major driving factor.

In this engaging presentation, Dr. Spencer will take you on an evidence-based journey and make a strong case that the so-called “parafunction” that wreaks havoc on our patient’s teeth and on our best restorations may actually be “protective” in nature. This understanding may help with the diagnosis and actual treatment of the true underlying etiology of the bruxism.

With the case made that clenching and grinding may be the brain’s way to protect itself from suffocation, we will then focus on how to protect the patient, protect their teeth, protect their restorations and protect the dentist’s practice.

Learning Objectives:

• Review the literature regarding possible connections between bruxism and obstructive sleep apnea.
• Discuss use of night guards and oral appliances for sleep apnea and their effects on bruxism muscle activity.
• Learn how to screen patients for possible sleep apnea related bruxism and when to refer for a sleep evaluation.

Registration link coming soon!