All You Need to Know About Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Bruxism is a common dental diagnosis. Since most people only occasionally grind their teeth, the teeth are not affected enough to warrant treatment. However, in severe cases, a dentist can recommend some solutions to the grinding problem. Here is everything you need to know about grinding teeth and why it can harm you.

When do people grind teeth and why?

Children and adults usually grind their teeth during sleep. Bruxism is often caused by misaligned or missing teeth, causing the rest to rub against each other while the jaw is shut. Sleep disorders like apnea can also exacerbate the condition. Most people are unaware that they grind their teeth unless informed by a family member who heard it or during a dentist check-up.

Stress can also be a driving cause behind bruxism. In severe cases, adults can grind teeth during the day while stressed without noticing it, which can cause issues over time.

What are some symptoms of bruxism?

A dull or sore jaw in the morning is usually a telltale sign that a patient has bruxism. Teeth grinding during the night can also cause headaches since the jaw muscles are tightened.

The easiest way to diagnose bruxism is to contact a dentist. A visual inspection of the teeth is usually enough to determine the extent of bruxism and offer solutions. Excessive teeth grinding can lead to worn-down teeth and loss of enamel.

Is teeth grinding harmful?

Most adults don’t clench their jaw tightly enough to require therapy. Chronic bruxism, however, can damage teeth over time. Constant grinding can reduce a healthy tooth to a stump and cause teeth misalignment or worsen other dental issues.

Treatments for bruxism

Children usually grow out of bruxism by the time their permanent teeth erupt. Misaligned teeth and other medical conditions (stress, endocrine disorders, pinworms, and nutritional deficiencies) are usually thought to cause bruxism in children. Treatment traditionally consists of removing stress and wearing a mouth guard to prevent grinding.

In adults, the dentist will usually fit a patient with a mouth guard or splint for wearing during sleep to protect the teeth from further damage. These devices are custom-made from molds to fit the teeth perfectly. Some of the damage has already been done in severe cases, and the teeth might need realignment or dental corrections to reshape the chewing surfaces.

Medication has been found ineffective at treating bruxism unless caused by an underlying issue. If bruxism is caused by stress, contacting a professional therapist or counselor can alleviate the underlying cause. Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication can also help in some cases. Other causes, like sleep apnea or medication changes, would have to be treated separately by the respective specialists.

Tips to prevent bruxism

Alleviate any stress or anxiety since either can be driving factors behind bruxism.

Do not consume stimulants like caffeine (sodas, coffee, chocolate) or alcohol before sleep to reduce bruxism during sleep.

Avoid chewing on pens, pencils, or chewing gum, as that can make the jaw muscles used to clenching and promote bruxism while you sleep.

Behavioral changes can also help alleviate bruxism. Putting the tongue tip between the front teeth during the day can train the jaw muscles to relax.