Regulating heart function to reduce bruxism
Is heart and mouth connected? Let's dive into it
Heart is an important organ that pumps blood to the various organs of the body. Bruxism refers to the excessive grinding of teeth, which may lead to various Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJD). Studies have shown that these two are interconnected, and regulating heart function could prevent bruxism, especially at night.
Mouth - Heart axis
The mouth is a complex structure. Any bacterial inflammation may pass through the blood vessels and impact the heart, causing infectious endocarditis. This is especially true in cases of aggressive periodontitis, where the entire periodontal system is affected. This already proves the relation between the heart and the teeth.
Studies have proven that bruxism is related to cardiovascular disturbances. It occurs through a complex mechanism:
Pathophysiology of sleep bruxism, establishing that increased sympathetic activity is a core of the causal chain with an initial increase in heart rate and microarousal accompanied by rhythmic masticatory muscle activity (RMMA). The key contribution of autonomic-cardiac network hyperreactivity can be described as homeostasis maintenance in response to cortical activation and arousal. The increased sympathetic activity may provide significant cardiovascular implications.
Heart rate variability biofeedback (HRVB)
Heart rate variability refers to the time between each heartbeat. A higher HRV indicates greater heart function, while lower levels could indicate cardiovascular issues. This could act as a biomarker for heart function.
Hence, observing these levels and using breathing techniques to regulate breathing could help regulate heart function. They normalize the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, which in turn reduces signs and symptoms of bruxism.
