Your teeth are designed to chew and grind food. Some people have an unconscious habit of clenching and grinding their teeth. Also called bruxism, this condition can create small cracks in your teeth. Over time, clenching and grinding can make teeth more susceptible to decay and may wear down the pointed surfaces of molars. Muscle pain, headaches, and jaw damage can also occur because of bruxism.

When you have bruxism, you may unconsciously grind your teeth at night as well as during the day. In some cases, the clenching and grinding is mild, so no treatment is required. If the symptoms are severe enough, you may need help from your dentist or orthodontist to address the problem. Some common signs of bruxism include increased sensitivity in teeth, excessive wear of teeth surfaces, earaches, and chronic facial pain.

Stress, anxiety, and frustration can increase your chances of clenching and grinding. Often, young children experience bruxism, with the condition occurring mostly in kids under age five. Approximately three of 10 children grind their teeth without realizing it, often when they sleep. By adolescence, most kids outgrow this problem.

Because bruxism can create dental issues like teeth sensitivity or fractures in teeth, you should speak with your dentist or orthodontist about treatment options. Lifestyle choices like relaxation exercises can help you manage stress, but you may need a dental appliance to prevent clenching or grinding. Your orthodontist can take impressions for a splint or mouth guard. These devices will fit over your teeth and protect them from damage.

Creating beautiful, healthy smiles at Dr. Yolanda Cruz Dentistry – Toronto Canada Dentist – Bruxism