Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Bruxism is when you clench or grind your teeth.

Most people probably grind and clench their teeth during sleep from time to time. This occasional teeth grinding does not usually cause harm, but when teeth grinding occurs on a regular basis, the teeth can be damaged and other complications can arise.

Grinding is when you slide your teeth back and forth over each other. This can wear down your teeth. Clenching means you tightly hold your top and bottom teeth together, especially the back teeth. Clenching puts pressure on the muscles, tissues, and other structures around your jaw.

This can lead to jaw pain and soreness, headaches, earaches, damaged teeth, and other problems. Bruxism is usually done subconsciously. The causes of bruxism are not really known, but several factors may be involved. Stressful situations, an abnormal bite, and crooked or missing teeth appear to contribute the most.Bruxism can usually be prevented with the use of a mouth guard. The mouth guard, supplied by a dentist, can fit over the teeth to prevent teeth from grinding against each other.Stress reduction and other lifestyle changes, including avoiding alcohol and caffeine, may also be helpful.

Because teeth grinding or bruxism often occurs during sleep, most people are unaware that they grind their teeth. However, if you often wake up with a dull, constant headache or a sore jaw, there is a good chance you are grinding your teeth at night. Many times people learn that they grind their teeth by their loved one who hears the grinding at night. If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist. He or she can examine your mouth and jaw for signs of bruxism, such as jaw tenderness and abnormalities in your teeth.