Bruxism Chiropractor in Paris — Teeth Grinding Treatment

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, affects approximately 8 to 10% of the adult population. This condition involves involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth, often at night, causing jaw pain, headaches and premature tooth wear. Chiropractic offers a complementary, natural approach to treating the neuromuscular and postural causes of bruxism.

At Sophie Baltaci's clinic in Paris 2nd, we approach bruxism holistically: cervical tensions, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunctions, stress and posture. This comprehensive vision allows us to treat the root causes of grinding, beyond simple dental protection.

Bruxism is often associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and neck pain. Our chiropractic approach addresses these connections.

Types of Bruxism: Sleep, Awake and Mixed

Bruxism presents in different forms. Identifying which type of bruxism you suffer from is essential for adapting the chiropractic treatment.

Sleep Bruxism (Nocturnal)

Sleep bruxism is the most common form. It is characterised by rhythmic teeth grinding during sleep, often reported by a bed partner. Episodes occur mainly during light sleep phases and micro-arousals. The patient wakes with jaw pain, morning headaches and a feeling of fatigue. Tooth wear, enamel cracks and increased dental sensitivity are the main consequences.

Awake Bruxism (Daytime)

Awake bruxism, or daytime bruxism, involves involuntary teeth clenching during the day. Unlike nocturnal bruxism, it typically does not involve lateral grinding movements. It is strongly linked to stress, intense concentration and emotional tension. People working at screens, athletes under exertion and anxious individuals are particularly affected.

Mixed Bruxism

Mixed bruxism combines both forms: daytime clenching and nocturnal grinding. It is often a sign of a more global imbalance involving stress, cervical dysfunctions and TMJ disorders. This form requires comprehensive chiropractic care, combining work on the cervical spine, TMJ and stress management.

Causes of Bruxism: Why Do We Grind Our Teeth?

Bruxism is a multifactorial disorder with both neuromuscular and psychological origins. Understanding these causes allows the chiropractor to tailor treatment and address the underlying triggers.

Neuromuscular and Occlusal Factors

Bruxism is closely linked to central nervous system function and neuromuscular regulation of the jaw. Upper cervical dysfunctions (C1-C2) can disrupt trigeminal nerve innervation, which controls the chewing muscles. Dopamine imbalances and neurotransmitters involved in oral motor function also play a role. Dental malocclusions, occlusal interferences and facial asymmetries create compensatory tensions that perpetuate grinding.

Psychological and Lifestyle Factors

Chronic stress, anxiety and emotional tension are the main triggers of bruxism, particularly awake bruxism. Clenching the teeth is a physiological stress response that activates the masseter and temporal muscles. Sleep disorders (sleep apnoea, micro-arousals), caffeine and alcohol consumption, and certain medications (SSRI antidepressants, psychostimulants) worsen nocturnal bruxism.

How the Chiropractor Treats Bruxism

Chiropractic treatment for bruxism differs from the traditional dental approach by targeting the neuromuscular and postural causes of grinding, not just its consequences on the teeth.

Cervical and Cranial Adjustments

Upper cervical vertebra dysfunctions (C1-C2) directly influence the trigeminal nerve and jaw muscles. The chiropractor performs precise cervical and cranial bone adjustments (temporal, sphenoid) to restore optimal biomechanics and reduce overactivity of the chewing muscles. These techniques are gentle and adapted to the sensitivity of the area.

Temporomandibular Joint Work

The chiropractor works directly on the temporomandibular joint to restore its mobility and alignment. Techniques include gentle TMJ mobilisations, myofascial release of the masseter, temporal and pterygoid muscles, and specific intra-oral techniques. This work reduces the tensions that contribute to clenching and grinding.

Personalised Exercises and Advice

In addition to clinic sessions, your chiropractor prescribes self-massage exercises for the chewing muscles, cervical stretches and jaw relaxation techniques. Advice on stress management, sleep hygiene and jaw resting positions completes the care plan. The goal is to make you autonomous in managing your bruxism.

How Bruxism Treatment Works

Comprehensive Initial Assessment

During your first visit, Sophie Baltaci conducts a comprehensive assessment of your jaw, cervical spine and posture. The examination includes: TMJ mobility evaluation, palpation of the chewing muscles (masseters, temporals, pterygoids), cervical alignment analysis, neurological tests and overall postural evaluation. This assessment takes approximately 45 minutes and identifies the factors contributing to your bruxism.

Personalised Treatment Plan

Based on the assessment, a personalised treatment plan is established. It typically includes cervical and cranial adjustments, TMJ work, muscular release techniques and a home exercise programme. Sessions last 20 to 30 minutes. During the acute phase, 1 to 2 sessions per week are recommended, then gradually spaced out. If necessary, your chiropractor will refer you to a dentist or orthodontist for complementary care.

Results of Chiropractic Treatment for Bruxism

Clinical studies show that manual therapy techniques, including cervical adjustments and TMJ work, significantly reduce bruxism intensity and associated pain. At our Paris clinic, we observe that after 4 to 8 sessions, the majority of patients report a notable decrease in grinding, reduced jaw pain and improved sleep quality. Combining chiropractic care with an occlusal splint and relaxation exercises gives the best long-term results.

When to Consult a Chiropractor for Bruxism?

Don't wait for bruxism to damage your teeth or become chronic. Consult a chiropractor if you experience any of these signs:

• Teeth grinding or clenching reported by those around you or your dentist
• Jaw pain on waking or at the end of the day
• Recurring headaches, especially in the morning on waking
• Jaw clicking or locking when opening the mouth
• Abnormal wear, cracks or increased sensitivity of the teeth
• Chronic neck tension associated with facial pain

Treat Your Bruxism with a Chiropractor in Paris

Don't let bruxism damage your teeth and quality of life. Our chiropractic clinic in Paris 2nd welcomes you for a comprehensive assessment of your jaw, cervical spine and posture. Sophie Baltaci offers a complementary, natural approach to treating the causes of bruxism. Book your appointment online via Doctolib.