How Does Teeth Grinding Happen?

What is Teeth Grinding?

The scientific term for teeth grinding is bruxism. Most people do it to some degree at some point in their lives. It is common in children but most grow out of it. Bruxism can cause significant health problems when it happens during sleep. It can lead to jaw pain, headaches and tooth damage. Since this happens while a person is unconscious, many victims of bruxism don't even know they grind their teeth.

Symptoms of Teeth Grinding

If you suffer pain in your jaw, face or ears on a regular basis you may grind your teeth. Sometimes the chomping and grinding is so loud that people who sleep near you can hear it. Severe symptoms include sensitive teeth, worn-down enamel and broken teeth.

Causes of Teeth Grinding

The primary cause of teeth grinding is stress. People suffering this kind of bruxism manifest their stress by unconsciously clenching their jaws. Others grind their teeth because of dental problems. When the upper and lower teeth don't line up properly people tend to clench. This is especially common in children with developing teeth. Certain neurological diseases and medications can also cause people to grind their teeth.

Diagnosing Teeth Grinding

If you have reoccurring pain in your head, jaw or face then ask your dentist if you grind your teeth. Dentists can spot a teeth grinder just by looking at their mouth. Find the canine teeth on your upper jaw. They are the pointed teeth third from the middle. If they are worn flat then you are probably a teeth grinder.

Treating Teeth Grinding

If teeth grinding is mild, your dentist may tell you to just relax and reduce stress in your life. Children often grow out of teeth grinding as their jaws develop. In severe cases, dentists will make patients a "splint." This is a custom-made plastic mold of the teeth. It is worn in the mouth while sleeping. It acts as a barrier when patients grind their teeth. If bruxism is the result of disease or drugs, doctors may prescribe a change in medication.

Long Term Problems of Teeth Grinding

It is important to diagnose and treat teeth grinding early. Years and years of grinding teeth make them weak and brittle. Long-time sufferers of bruxism can wear their teeth down to the nubs. Their teeth can chip or break apart. In severe cases the damage is so extensive that the remaining teeth must be removed. Early diagnosis is the key to prevention.