CLENCHING AND GRINDING

If you find yourself clenching your jaw throughout the day, or you wake up with sensitive teeth, a sore jaw, or a headache, you might suffer from bruxism—grinding, clenching or gnashing of the teeth. This teeth-grinding and jaw-clenching habit is a common condition that affects up to one-third of adults in the daytime and more than 1 in 10 in their sleep.

Two Types of Bruxism

There are two types of bruxism: Awake bruxism and Sleep bruxism. As the name suggests, Awake bruxism happens while you are awake, and is typically caused by stress and anxiety. Some people may also grind or clench their teeth while deep in concentration. Awake bruxism may be easier to diagnose - you are probably aware you are doing it.

Sleep bruxism is considered a sleep-related movement disorder. People who clench or grind their teeth during sleep are more likely to have other sleep disorders, such as snoring and pauses in breathing (sleep apnea). It is sometimes related to hyperactivity, acid reflux, or as a side effect of certain medications like those intended to treat depression. Many people with Sleep bruxism do not realize they are clenching their jaw or grinding their teeth until a partner notices or until more serious symptoms develop.

Doctors aren’t sure what causes either type of bruxism or jaw clenching, but things like stress, heightened emotions, lack of sleep, or stimulants like caffeine can tend to trigger it and make it worse.

Symptoms of Clenching and Grinding

Your dentist can spot tell-tale signs of teeth grinding and clenching. Other symptoms of bruxism include:

  • face, neck and shoulder pain

  • a painful jaw, which can lead to a condition called temporomandibular disorder (TMD)

  • worn-down or broken teeth, which can cause increased sensitivity and loss of teeth and fillings

  • headaches

  • earache

  • disturbed sleep

Keep in mind that if you’re unsure whether you’re battling bruxism, the only way to be certain is to visit your dentist and receive a formal diagnosis.

Clenching or grinding of the teeth (also known as bruxism) is very common.

Treatment for Bruxism

Common next steps in terms of treatment for bruxism can include:

Stress management: For those with either Awake or Sleep bruxism, managing your stress or anxiety can reduce or eliminate your bruxism. Your dentist may recommend activities that help reduce stress and promote relaxation such as yoga, meditation, or therapy. If you suffer from Awake bruxism, it may be helpful to take notes of the situations that lead to clenching and grinding. You can consider leaving yourself reminder notes to relax your jaw in especially stressful situations such a driving or working.

Night guards: Night guards form a barrier between your teeth to prevent grinding. They are built to protect your teeth from injury while you’re sleeping. Our dentists will take impressions of your teeth and customize a night guard specifically for your mouth. A well-fitting night guard should not be disruptive to your sleep.

Additional Dental Work: If bruxism has already damaged your teeth, it may be necessary to get them fixed before you are fitted for a custom night guard. To prevent further damage, and maintain the health of your other teeth, we will examine all your teeth and recommend any needed dental work prior to treating your bruxism.

The good news is that if you clench your jaw or grind your teeth, we can help! The team at Smile New Braunfels can diagnose and treat your bruxism. Give us a call to schedule your appointment today.