Teeth grinding or bruxism, is the habit of grinding, gnashing or clenching the teeth. Occasional teeth grinding is not harmful. However, severe teeth grinding that occurs on a daily basis, can lead to tooth fracture or loss. Other health complications as a result of severe and frequent teeth grinding include jaw disorders and headaches.
While some people unconsciously clench their teeth during the day, teeth grinding most often occurs during sleep. This means most people are unaware that they are grinding their teeth.
Signs and symptoms of teeth grinding include:
- A dull headache
- Sore jaw
- Worn tooth enamel
- Fractured, flattened or chipped teeth
- hronic facial pain
- Tightness in the jaw muscles or jaw pain
Although doctors do not completely understand what causes teeth grinding, possible causes include, stress, anxiety or the misalignment of the upper and lower teeth. Both children and adults experience teeth grinding.
During regular dental exams, Dr. Hill can check for the physical signs of teeth grinding. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms, call us. If you notice that your child is grinding his/her teeth or is displaying any of the symptoms, please inform us at their next appointment.
In most cases, no treatment may be necessary. Most children simply “outgrow” the condition, and many adults do not experience the severe teeth grinding that requires therapy.
If the problem becomes severe, we can fit you with a mouth guard or splint to prevent further damage to your teeth, or correct misaligned teeth. If stress is to blame, you need to find a way to relax.