What Is Teeth Grinding?

Chronic teeth grinding will result in you ruining your smile and making your teeth shorter, as well as disturbances in your sleep.

Teeth grinding, or Bruxism as it’s referred to medically, is classified as excessive grinding of your teeth. Many actions cause us to clench our teeth during the course of the day, but when this grinding becomes a chronic condition, it starts to present a significant risk to our oral health. Bruxism does occur during waking hours but is more commonly an involuntary condition that takes place during sleep. Like all medical conditions, teeth grinding is different for all of us. Symptoms of Bruxism can vary greatly and treatments will depend on the level of severity and nature of the condition.

Common Causes of Teeth Grinding

Stress
A significant cause for teeth grinding during the day is often stress. Pressures from personal and work life can cause anxiety, anger, and other emotions that are difficult to manage. Physical coping mechanisms can manifest early in life, such as a tightly clenched jaw and grinding motion of our teeth. Stress is the enemy of oral health.

Abnormality in Bite or Teeth
Grinding during the night can also be caused by abnormalities in your bite or teeth, such as missing or crooked teeth. These gaps or misalignments cause teeth to meet at uncomfortable angles, increasing the risk of grinding, as well as cracking, chipping, and other issues.

Sleep Disorder (Sleep Apnea)
Bruxism can be subconscious and hard to identify personally. Your partner may notice teeth grinding at night. Sleep grinding has been linked to sleep disorders like sleep apnea, and research suggests the two may trigger each other.

Certain Medications
Certain medications, including antipsychotics and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, can contribute to teeth grinding. Consult your doctor or dentist if you suspect your medication is causing Bruxism.

Bruxism Symptoms

Symptoms can include:

• Jaw pain upon waking that may continue throughout the day
• Neck pain
• Pain radiating down to the shoulders
• Earache or hearing impairment
• Poor quality of sleep
• Stiff jaw in the morning

Risk Factors Associated with Teeth Grinding

Risks include:

• High pressure on teeth causing cracks, chips, or breaks
• Frequent headaches
• Ongoing jaw pain and facial swelling
• Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), resulting in jaw and facial muscle pain

The Effects of Teeth Grinding on You

Chronic teeth grinding can ruin your smile, shorten teeth, and disrupt sleep. It reduces enamel, increases sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and can damage fillings, crowns, or other dental work.

Pandemic Related Stress Causing an Increase in Teeth Grinding

Stress, including pandemic-related anxiety, can increase Bruxism. According to Jeremy Sternson, President of the Victorian Branch of the Australian Dental Association, 2021 saw tooth cracks increase three to four times due to stress.

How to Stop Grinding Your Teeth

Bruxism treatments vary by individual. Treating symptoms is often the easiest solution.

Stress
Relaxation techniques, being aware of jaw clenching, and other exercises can help. A qualified dental professional can guide you.

Abnormality in Bite or Teeth
Dental solutions include implants, bridges, corrective braces, and Invisalign. Your dentist will recommend the best option.

Sleep Disorder (Sleep Apnea)
Reducing stimulation before sleep and creating a relaxing environment can help prevent night grinding.

Certain Medications
Adjusting medications under professional guidance or using specific medications may help.

A mouthguard is an effective solution, protecting teeth at night. Botox and dermal fillers may also reduce jaw clenching.

Do Children Grind Their Teeth?

About one in three children grind their teeth during sleep, usually during their first and second sets of teeth. Most outgrow it. Stress reduction and good oral hygiene can help. Consult a dentist for guidance.

Innovative Dental Has the Solution for Teeth Grinding

Innovative Dental offers personalised treatment plans including night guards and full oral inspections. Call (03) 9346 8333 or book online today!