Bruxism
Teeth grinding and clenching can cause significant damage to your teeth and gums. Learn how we can help protect your smile.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the involuntary habit of grinding, clenching, or gnashing your teeth. It can occur during the day (awake bruxism) or at night while you sleep (sleep bruxism). Many people are unaware they grind their teeth until a dental professional identifies the signs.
While occasional teeth grinding may not cause harm, chronic bruxism can lead to significant dental problems, including worn enamel, cracked teeth, jaw pain, and accelerated periodontal disease.
Signs and Symptoms
Common signs that you may be grinding or clenching your teeth include:
- Teeth that are flattened, fractured, chipped, or loose
- Worn tooth enamel exposing deeper layers of the tooth
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Jaw pain, tightness, or fatigue
- Headaches, especially upon waking
- Earaches that are not caused by ear problems
- Dull headaches starting in the temples
- Disrupted sleep (for you or your sleep partner)
- Damage to the inside of the cheeks from chewing
Bruxism and Periodontal Disease
Bruxism is a significant risk factor for periodontal disease. The excessive forces generated by grinding and clenching can damage the periodontal ligament and supporting bone around the teeth. This trauma can accelerate bone loss and worsen existing gum disease.
In patients who already have periodontal disease, bruxism can make treatment more challenging and increase the risk of tooth loss. Managing bruxism is therefore an important part of a comprehensive periodontal treatment plan.
Treatment Options
At All Smiles Dental Care, we offer several approaches to managing bruxism:
- Custom night guards — a precisely fitted occlusal splint worn during sleep to protect teeth from grinding forces
- Bite adjustment — minor reshaping of the biting surfaces to distribute forces more evenly
- Stress management — since stress is a major trigger, relaxation techniques may be recommended
- Muscle relaxation exercises — targeted exercises for the jaw muscles
- Behavioural modification — awareness training for daytime clenching habits
- Restorative dentistry — repairing teeth that have been damaged by bruxism
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?
Since sleep bruxism occurs unconsciously, you may not be aware of it. Common clues include waking with jaw pain, headaches, or tooth sensitivity. Your dentist can also identify wear patterns on your teeth during a routine exam.
Will a night guard stop me from grinding?
A night guard does not stop the grinding habit, but it protects your teeth and jaw joints from the damaging forces of bruxism. It acts as a cushion between your upper and lower teeth.
Book an Appointment
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Our friendly team is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your consultation at All Smiles Dental Care.