Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding also known as Bruxism, is when a person either consciously or non-consciously rubs their upper and lower set of teeth together. As the teeth slide across each other friction is created with can grind the teeth and lead to them wearing down as well as potentially causing other problems to occur within the mouth.

What causes teeth grinding?

People who grind their teeth may be grinding them for a number of reasons which can be conscious and unconscious. It is recognised that stress and anxiety can contribute to a person grinding their teeth. Here are some of the other identified causes:

• Drinking alcoholic products.
• Drugs use, such as cocaine or ecstasy.
• Medical conditions such as epilepsy an Parkinson’s.
• Sleep troubles, including, sleep talking, snoring or sleep apnoea.
• Medications like SSRI’s (anti-depressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors).

How to prevent teeth grinding?

Teeth grinding is not always preventable due to the varying factors that cause a person to grind their teeth, however utilising the following guidance should limit the risk of you grinding your teeth if you have not previously done it.

• Avoiding or quitting smoking.
• Avoid or quit the consumption of drugs.
• Limiting your alcohol intake.
• Research into the medication you take to understand the side effects.
• Scheduling appointments with your doctor when your sleep troubles become disruptive.

How to treat teeth grinding?

Teeth grinding can be treated in a variety of ways, which correspond to the underlying cause of the grinding. The most common treatment used by dentists is to use a mouth guard which should be worn in the night as you sleep. Alternatively, you may wear a mouth splint, which is designed similarly to a mouth guard, but also holds the teeth in place preventing any teeth from shifting out of their natural positioning.

If you visit a GP, they will likely ask you to evaluate your lifestyle choices and determine what needs to be changed in regard to medications or habits such as smoking.  Your GP will be able to provide medical advice on how to manage stress and anxiety also.

How to spot teeth grinding/ symptoms?

Some people may be aware that they are grinding their teeth during the day. For those who may be doing it in their sleep it’s important that you book in with your dentist if you are experiencing any of the symptoms below:

• Sensitive teeth.
• Sensitive or stiff muscles in the face, neck, and jaw.
• Swollen or receding gum line.
• Worn down teeth.
• Broken or split teeth.
• Loose crown or fillings.
• Disrupted sleep.
• Toothache, earache, and headaches.