TEETH GRINDING

Teeth grinding (known as bruxism) is when you might be clenching your teeth unconsciously during the day or grinding them in your sleep.

For many, teeth grinding is most often mild and does not necessarily need to be treated. There is, however, severe bruxism that can create complications such as headaches, chipped teeth and jaw pain.

If you are suffering with sleep bruxism and you are not aware of the intensity until complications occur, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms. You can then schedule a dentist appointment before pain or other complications arise.

Some signs and symptoms of teeth grinding are:

- Teeth grinding that might be loud enough to disturb anyone sleeping next to you.
- You might be experiencing greater tooth sensitivity.
- Having jaw pain or a muscle tightness in your jaw.
- Pain in the area of your ear caused by extreme jaw muscle contractions.
- Headaches
- Facial pain that doesn't seem to go away
- Fractured or chipped teeth

When Should You See A Dentist?

- Pain in your jaw or ear
- If teeth look damaged or are sensitive
- If you are getting complaints about grinding noise during your sleep

Causes of Teeth Grinding

The causes of bruxism are not that clear.
There may be a physical or psychological component such as:

- Any anger or frustration that is being surpressed
- General anxiety or unmanageable stress
- Hyperactive personality traits
- An abnormal alignment (malocclusion) of teeth
- A response to earache pain or when teething (if a child)
- Jaw development or growth of teeth in children
- Medical disorders that might create complications
- Side effects from the use of some antidepressants.

Most often, teeth grinding does not need any special treatment. Kids will usually outgrow bruxism and generally, adults aren't teeth grinding bad enough to warrant treatment.
If, however, you feel that the problem is severe, and want to stop teeth grinding, there are therapeudic treatments and medications available:

- Mouth guards. These are made to fit over your upper or lower teeth and prevent tooth damage.
- Adjusting any misaligned teeth may help.
- Stress management to promote relaxation through exercise and meditation. A warm bath. Expressing fears and anxieties. (Especially children)
- Behavior modification. With lips closed, you can try to rest your tongue upward and your teeth apart. This may help stop your teeth grinding and jaw clenching.
- Biofeedback. Sensors relay auditory cues when teeth grinding or clenching starts allowing you to modify your behavior.
- Although medications are usually not effective in the treatment of bruxism, your doctor might suggest taking a muscle relaxant before sleeptime.
- Botulinum toxin. Yes, (Botox) injections can help some people who are suffering with severe bruxism.

The best rule of thumb is to schedule regular dental checkups. With regular dental examinations, your Dentist can often diagnose any teeth grinding problems and offer the appropriate treatment.