Bruxism

Another word I had learn for my class is "bruxism." It means "teeth grinding" though I don't know why you wouldn't just say that. Anyway, I do it and it's extremely annoying.

My dentist hates it, though he says he does it himself. He uses one of those mouth guard thingys, and he thinks I ought to use one too. Eww.

In bed tonight, I find myself doing it. Why, you ask? Oh, maybe stress? Maybe lack of exercise? Who knows? But I find myself wondering....

Does this make me a bruxist?

So in my head I start thinking about the word.

Bruxist. Bruxism. Bruxarama. Bruxability. Bruxilicious.

I can't help it. I can't sleep! Once something like this gets into my brain, I just can't help myself.

So I get up and I google it---"bruxism," that is. The first thing that comes up is the Wikipedia site so I read it. Here's what it has to say---

Bruxism (from the Greek βρυγμός (brugmós), gnashing of teeth) is the grinding of the teeth, typically accompanied by the clenching of the jaw. It is an oral parafunctional activity that occurs in most humans. Bruxism is caused by the activation of reflex chewing activity; it is not a learned habit. Chewing is a complex neuromuscular activity that is controlled by reflex nerve pathways, with higher control by the brain. During sleep, the reflex part is active while the higher control is inactive, resulting in bruxism. In most people, bruxism is mild enough not to be a health problem; however, some people suffer from significant bruxism that can become symptomatic.

Now, isn't that fascinating? Aren't you so glad you're spending your time reading my blog? And aren't I so proud that I spend my time writing it?

Quick! Call your friends! Alert the media! Let them know there's a new blogger in town and she's a fabulous read!

Yes, insomnia. It's a good thing.