Bruxism is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth. Many people do it in their sleep and do not notice it.
Signs
- Tired or sore jaw muscles in the morning
- Headaches around the temples or ears
- Worn, cracked or sensitive teeth
- Clicking or locking of the jaw joint
- A partner hearing grinding noises at night
What may cause it?
Stress, sleep problems, tooth alignment and jaw structure, some medications and habits can play a role. The cause varies from person to person.
What can help?
- Night guard: A custom guard made by your dentist helps protect teeth from wear.
- Stress management: Relaxation exercises and regular sleep may help.
- Reviewing habits: Cutting down on coffee, alcohol and biting pens or nails may help.
- Jaw exercises and warm compresses: May give relief, as advised by your dentist.
When to be examined
If you notice jaw pain, headaches or tooth wear, see your dentist. Early detection helps reduce lasting damage to the teeth.
The information on this page is for general purposes only; an examination is required for diagnosis and treatment. Treatment plans are determined by the dentist according to each patient's condition.