Bruxism (Tooth Grinding) and Clenching

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) and Clenching

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is one of those sneaky conditions that can often go unnoticed, even though it may be affecting your oral health. It involves the involuntary clenching and grinding of your teeth, and it doesn’t always show symptoms in an obvious way.

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Many people don’t realize they’re grinding their teeth until someone else, like a partner, notices the sound or they begin to experience symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down, sensitive teeth.

Symptoms of Teeth Grinding

The tricky part about identifying teeth grinding is that the symptoms may not always be noticeable right away, especially in the morning when the effects are still fresh. If you grind your teeth during the day, symptoms often won’t appear until later in the day.

So, what should you look out for?

  1. Fractured, chipped, or loose teeth
  2. Dull headaches, sore jaws, and/or ear pain
  3. Aching teeth and stiffness in the face and temples, especially after waking up
  4. Sore jaws while eating, particularly in the morning
  5. Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
  6. Intense jaw clenching

Even if you aren’t sure if teeth grinding is the cause of your symptoms, it’s a good idea to mention any concerns to your dentist. They can evaluate your condition and recommend possible treatments.

Problems Caused by Teeth Grinding

While those annoying symptoms might seem manageable at first, the long-term effects can be much more damaging. The pressure from teeth grinding can wear down the protective enamel, causing cracks in your teeth, fracturing fillings, and potentially breaking crowns. Additionally, your jaw muscles and joints can become stressed, leading to more pain and discomfort.

Teeth grinding can also cause increased sensitivity to temperature changes and make biting down painful as the fibres that attach teeth to the bone become inflamed.

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Causes and Treatments

Bruxism can be triggered by both physical and psychological factors, so treatment may need to address both aspects. Your dentist will help identify any physical causes, such as overly high fillings, misaligned teeth, or missing teeth. In many cases, they may recommend a custom-made appliance, like a night guard, to prevent damage if you grind your teeth while you sleep.

Addressing the root cause of bruxism and managing symptoms early on is key to protecting your teeth and preventing further damage. If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist for a diagnosis and treatment options.