From time to time, most people will clench or grind their teeth. If you consistently grind your teeth, damage can occur and you may develop other oral health problems as well. An estimated 20 percent of the population has bruxism, the term used to describe frequent teeth grinding. In the past, bruxism was thought to be caused by a malocclusion, or bad bite, but research indicates that stress and anxiety may play an even larger role. Certain medications can also increase the chances of teeth grinding.

Because teeth grinding often occurs during sleep, many people don’t even realize they have this problem. Often, individuals will notice common side effects such as headaches and sore jaws without making the connection. In some cases, friends and loved one may point out the teeth grinding. Bruxism can occur in children as well as in adults.

It’s important to remedy teeth grinding as soon as you realize the problem. Teeth grinding can result in uneven tooth wear, broken fillings, nerve damage, gum recession, and even loose teeth. Your orthodontist or dentist can perform a full evaluation to look for signs of bruxism and assess how much damage has occurred to your teeth.

If your doctor determines that bruxism is a problem, several treatments are available to curtail this problem, including:

• A custom mouthguard to prevent grinding during sleep
• Medication adjustments as directed by your physician
• Orthodontic treatment to correct bite issues
• Restorative work to repair teeth
• Stress management techniques

Making you smile at Dr. Yolanda Cruz Dentistry – Toronto Canada Dental Office