Teeth grinding, medically known as bruxism, is common for so many Americans.
What is it?
Teeth grinding is a condition in which a patient grinds, gnashes or clenches their teeth. This can happen while awake or during sleep.
While it is not a serious condition, it’s important to pay attention to the frequency or intensity of teeth grinding. Too much grinding can lead to headaches, damaged teeth and even jaw disorders [source].
What to look for
- Worn enamel
- Jaw or neck pain
- Sore or tight jaw muscles
- Painful or loose teeth
Teeth grinding is common and unfortunately can be caused from a number of reasons. One of the most common reasons being stress or anxiety. Many patients struggle with stress and anxiety during the day which causes teeth grinding while they sleep. Specifically night time teeth grinding can be caused by acid reflux, hyperactivity or even sleep apnea [source].
Treatments
There are many treatments to help with teeth grinding. If you suffer from teeth grinding, visit with your dentist and create a treatment plan that is right for you.
Options include:
- Medication such as muscle relaxers taken at night will help to release the tension in the jaw muscle alleviating the pain.
- Mouth guards such as bite guards or retainers place a barrier between your top and lower jaw to keep the teeth from wearing down.
- Procedures most commonly including Botox injections can paralyze the jaw muscle to keep the tension of the mouth.
- Counseling or therapy can help reduce stress or anxiety which will decrease the tension during sleep.