The daily grind can affect your bite

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Do you ever find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth? Do you wake up with a sore jaw, teeth, or with a headache? If so then you may have a dental condition called "bruxism." Patients often do not realize they have a potentially damaging habit because most bruxing happens while they are asleep.

According to the May 2005 edition of the Journal of the American Dental Association, "People who grind or clench their teeth may wake with a headache, earache or toothache. Their facial muscles may be sore and the jaw joints tender. Besides causing discomfort, grinding can eventually damage dental restorations and may loosen teeth. Bruxism also can cause damage to the temporomandibular joints -- the joints on each side of the mouth that connect the lower jaw to the skull. The pressure from clenching and grinding can cause cracks or fractures in the teeth. s the tooth enamel is worn away, the underlying layer of dentin may be exposed. This causes the tooth to become sensitive to temperature changes and pressure."

Dentists completing a thorough annual examination will include steps to ascertain if a person is causing significant damage to their teeth, muscles, or joints due to bruxing. The most common treatment for affected patients is a custom nightguard that is specifically made for each patient and acts as a soft separator between upper and lower teeth. It is worn all night while patients are asleep to provide some amount of cushion to teeth and joints.

JADA also notes several other potentially helpful treatments. "If stress seems to be a major cause of bruxism, it may be helpful to find ways to relax, such as listening to music, reading a book, taking a walk or enjoying a warm bath. Applying a warm, wet washcloth to the side of the face may help relax muscles that have become sore from clenching. If you have difficulty handling stress, counseling may point to effective ways of dealing with stressful situations."

If you have concerns about bruxism, ask your dental provider about it at your next appointment.

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