How to Stop Grinding Your Teeth

This may surprise you. The majority of people don’t realise they grind their teeth when they sleep. Some people have battled the problem for years before their partner points out the grinding — or their dentist takes note of its toll on their teeth.

Teeth grinding is also referred to as bruxism and happens when the upper teeth grind over the lower teeth, gradually wearing away the enamel coating on your teeth. The movements may soon become more aggressive causing irreversible damage to the teeth.

The most common symptom of teeth grinding is waking up with a headache. Also, look out also for a sore jaw in the morning. Get an evaluation from your dentist to find out what’s wrong.

Emotional stress has been identified as the number one cause of teeth grinding. You  find yourself clenching the jaw and grinding teeth when dealing with tension and personal turmoil. However, the reasons that make people grind their teeth will vary dependent on age and current lifestyle. Genetics will also have a role to play in grinding teeth when asleep. Grinding has been closely linked to problems such as Down’s syndrome and sleeping disorders.

Impact of Teeth Grinding

Bruxism will greatly affect the strength and longevity of teeth. It affects the teeth as well as the jawbones and gums as well. The muscles and the temporomandibular joint that constitute the jaw mechanism may also be affected. Osteoarthritis of the jaw, chronic headaches, facial pain and clicking of the jaw are also the result of teeth grinding.

Treatment for teeth grinding

You should visit your dentist if you think you might have bruxism to get appropriate treatment. Oral appliances can help, and relaxation techniques can address underlying factors such as stress.

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