Most people probably grind and clench their teeth from time to time. Occasional teeth grinding, medically called bruxism, does not usually cause harm, but when teeth grinding occurs on a regular basis the teeth can be damaged and other oral health complications can arise.
Why Do People Grind Their Teeth?
Although teeth grinding can be caused by stress and anxiety, it often occurs during sleep and is more likely caused by an abnormal bite or missing or crooked teeth.
How Do I Find Out if I Grind My Teeth?
Because grinding often occurs during sleep, most people are unaware that they grind their teeth. However, a dull, constant headache or sore jaw is a tell tale symptom of bruxism. Many times people learn that they grind their teeth by their loved one who hears the grinding at night. If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist. He or she can examine your mouth and jaw for signs of bruxism, such as jaw tenderness and abnormalities in your teeth.
Why Is Teeth Grinding Harmful?
In some cases, chronic teeth grinding can result in a fracturing, loosening, or loss of teeth. The chronic grinding may wear their teeth down to stumps. When this happens it can lead to the need for expensive cosmetic procedures such as, bridges, crowns, root canals, implants, partial dentures, and even complete dentures. Not only can severe grinding damage teeth and result in tooth loss, it can also cause or worsen, TMD/TMJ symptoms and pain.
What Causes Teeth Grinding and Clenching?
Stress can be a major contributing factor to clenching and grinding teeth at night. If you wake up with headaches and jaw pain or sore and damaged teeth then you need this night guard for clenching and grinding teeth. SmartGuard® Night Guard will protect your teeth while you sleep and you’ll wake up feeling like a new you.
Learn more about teeth grinding and clenching.