Bruxism
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, refers to excessive grinding of the teeth and/or clenching of the jaw — most often occurring during sleep. If you wake up with jaw pain, tension headaches, or facial pain, you may be suffering from bruxism. Some people aren't even aware they grind their teeth until a dental visit reveals significant enamel loss or damage to restorations.
What Causes It?
Tension, stress, and anxiety experienced during the day can carry over into sleep, causing a person to grind or clench their teeth unknowingly. Regardless of the cause, frequent clenching and grinding wears down the chewing surfaces of the teeth, reduces enamel, and can result in cracked teeth, damaged crowns or fillings.
Treatment: Custom Nightguards
The most effective non-invasive solution for bruxism is a custom-fabricated nightguard. Made through a quick, comfortable impression of your teeth, the resulting nightguard is flexible, well-fitted, and personalized to your mouth. Worn during sleep, it prevents your teeth from making contact and absorbs the forces of grinding.
Self-Care Tips
- Reduce tension and stress — warm baths, soothing music, or regular exercise can help
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can increase grinding tendencies in some patients
- Focus on relaxing your jaw — "lips together, teeth apart" is a helpful reminder
- Avoid chewing on pencils, pens, or gum, which trains jaw muscles to stay tense
Because bruxism can occur without symptoms until significant damage develops, regular dental checkups are the best way to catch it early.
Concerned about teeth grinding?
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