Many people are unaware that they clench or grind their teeth because they often do it when they sleep. The clenching or grinding can be quite audible. Some people make no sounds and it is diagnosed by their dentist who notices wearing of their teeth in certain areas. Aside from awaking with a headache, a person who clenches or grinds may also have an earache and or toothache.
They may also have sore jaw muscles or joint pain. This joint pain or "TMJ" affects the muscles on each side of the mouth which connects the lower jaw to the skull. This grinding or clenching can also affect the fillings in your mouth. Wearing away of the fillings and enamel of the teeth causes sensitivity. It can also cause loosening of the teeth, cracking of a filling or tooth, and even tooth loss.
Although bruxism can develop at any age, the causes are not really known. Several factors may be involved: stress, problems sleeping, abnormal bite or crooked or missing teeth may contribute.
Grinding is a common occurrence for many people at one time or another. If you routinely have the symptoms, see your dentist.
Based on your dentist's diagnosis, one or more treatments may be recommended. He may suggest a night guard that can be wore while sleeping. These are custom made by the dentist and they relieve some of the pressure of grinding and clenching.
If thought appropriate, relaxation exercises are a way to relieve stress and reduce the problem. Warm, wet compresses and light music are two of the methods practiced to relieve this problem.
