Treatments

Teeth grinding is clinically referred to as Bruxism, it is the act of grinding and clenching of the teeth conscious or unconscious during the day or night. Bruxism occurs in most people at some time in their lives, however about 25% will suffer significantly and present some symptoms. The majority of health issues is caused by night bruxism and is one of the most common sleep disorders.

Symptoms

A lot of people grind their teeth at night and are not even aware of it. You might only know about it once a member of the family notice the grinding at night and tell you or some of these symptoms occur.

• Teeth grinding or clenching may be loud enough to wake your sleep partner.
• Significant cause of tooth loss and gum recession.
• Teeth that is flattened, fractured and chipped.
• Worn tooth enamel.
• Increased tooth sensitivity.
• Jaw or face pain and sensitivity.
• Damage from chewing on inside of your cheek.

Causes

• Abnormal alignment of upper and lower teeth.
• Stress, anxiety or anger
• Disturbed sleep pattern and other sleep disorders.
• Consumption of high levels of caffeinated food and drink.
• Some psychiatric medication such as phenothiazine or certain antidepressants.
• Complication resulting from a disorder such as Huntington’s disease or Parkinson’s disease.

When to see a dentist

Your dentist will examine your mouth, teeth, gums and jaw for signs and symptoms of bruxism.

• Your teeth are worn, damaged or sensitive.
• You have cracked fillings.
• You have pain in your jaw, face or ear.
• You have a dull headache at your temples.

Treatment

The already damaged teeth need to be restored by fillings, overlays or crowns etc. and alignment of teeth be corrected. After the treatment is done impressions can be taken to make an acrylic dental guard or splint. This will minimize and manage the abrasion of tooth surfaces while each guard or splint will be custom made to the shape of your upper or lower teeth from a bite mould.

Any of the above can be obtained through visits to your dentist for measuring, fitting and ongoing supervision.