Teeth Grinding

Bruxism

Teeth grinding—known as bruxism—can cause headaches, jaw pain, and even broken teeth, especially when it happens at night. You should know what bruxism is, common symptoms and signs, and how your dentist can help.

If you find yourself often waking up to a sore jaw, headache, and your partner’s complaints about keeping them up all night with the sound of loud gnashing, you could be grinding your teeth. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, isn’t just an annoyance. It can cause some serious damage if left unchecked.

From symptoms to solutions, here’s what you need to know about your bruxism.

Teeth Grinding Symptoms: Pain, Sensitivity, Chipped, and Loose teeth

According to the Bruxism Association, the most common symptoms of teeth grinding are headaches and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort. In fact, the Bruxism Association says that people who grind their teeth are three times more likely to suffer from headaches.

These symptoms are often accompanied by various oral signs, such as abnormal tooth wear, fractured teeth and inflammation, and recession of gums.

  • Increased tooth sensitivity due to diminished tooth enamel

  • Jaw soreness or tight muscles around your jaw

  • Chipped or loose teeth

  • Headache beginning at your temples

Bruxism and teeth grinding have many symptoms that are similar to those of other conditions. Also, since teeth clenching or grinding occurs typically during sleep, it may be challenging to know if you’re doing it. Keep an open dialogue with your dentist if you are experiencing any combination of the symptoms.

Why am I grinding?

There are lots of things that could be causing you to grind your teeth. Some of the possible causes include:

  • Snoring, sleep talking, and even sleep apnea can play a role in developing bruxism. Sleep apnea affects your breathing during sleep. Talk to your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

  • Stress, Anger, and Anxiety Can Cause Bruxism: Anger, anxiety, frustration, and stress are four primary reasons people may grind their teeth as a coping method. Stress is mainly linked the most to bruxism, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). Exercise releases endorphins that decrease stress.

  • Lifestyle Can Contribute to Bruxism in Adult: Tobacco use and alcohol consumption can increase the risk of bruxism, especially if consumed before bed. This isn’t always the case, though, as bruxism is also common in children.

  • Medications and Disorders Can Lead to Bruxism: Bruxism has also been linked to side-effects from medications and antidepressants, as well as neurological conditions like Huntington’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease. Consult a doctor in these cases.

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea: There is little evidence to directly attribute any specific cause, however there is evidence that bruxism is found more frequently in people who snore or suffer from OSA.