Bruxism (Habitual Grinding of Teeth)

Have you ever been told that you grind your teeth? Tooth grinding [bruxism] is an oral habit which involves clenching and grinding of the teeth. It is not uncommon in our society. Approximately 50% to 96% of adults experience bruxism and 15% of children acquire this behavior. Most often, this habit goes unnoticed by the person. Bruxism can occur during the day or night.

What causes bruxism?

This condition has no specific cause, but is believed to be more prevalent in certain individuals such as:

People with emotionally stressed personalities characterized as being aggressive, controlling, precise, or having time urgency and achievement compulsion, tend to develop bruxism malocclusion (teeth that are not aligned properly).

Signs of bruxism:

tooth wear
fractures of the teeth and fillings
grinding noise noticed by a sleeping partner
facial muscle pain and fatigue
locking, cracking, and clicking of the jaws
headaches
tooth mobility
sensitive teeth

Treatment of bruxism:

NightGuard Our dentists are aware of the habit and can suggest behavioral therapies to stop the bruxism. Stress reduction and coping techniques can be initiated to reduce the emotional stress that may be experienced.

A removable intra-oral appliance can be made called a nightguard or bruxism splint. The mouthguard protects the teeth from the forces of clenching and grinding the teeth together. A mouthguard or nightguard is more practical for treating the night bruxer than for those who have daytime clenching and grinding habits.