Definition of teeth grinding

Teeth grinding, or as it is more often medically known, bruxism, is a condition which typically occurs during sleep. As a local Shepparton dentist, this is an issue we see quite often. Most people are unaware that they grind their teeth at night unless they have a spouse who tells them, or if they start to present with associated symptoms. This is why many cases of bruxism remain undiscovered until the effects become clear.

The exact cause of bruxism remains unknown. It has been associated with various sleeping disorders, anxiety, stress, insomnia, and eating disorders. Clenching or grinding while asleep gradually wears down and causes damage to teeth. If it remains untreated, it can also lead to broken teeth, jaw disorders, cheek soreness and regular headaches upon waking. Caffeinated beverages, alcohol and smoking, are just a few of the triggers for bruxism.

So, returning to the original question of “How can I tell whether I grind my teeth or not?” The answer to this is it could be nothing simpler than looking in the mirror and checking your teeth. If they appear flat and the same length, it is likely that you have been griding them for many years. It takes an incredible amount of grinding to wear teeth down to that level. The enamel, the outer layer of your teeth, is stronger than your bones. So, it usually takes many years of continuous grinding through bruxism to wear away and weaken your teeth’ enamel. Therefore, it will be no surprise to hear that your dentist is the first person to notice you have bruxism.

Did you know that you can clench your teeth 130% tighter at night than you can during the day? This is because your protective reflexes do not function while you are sleeping, permitting more pressure to be applied during grinding. Teeth grinding happens in short bursts of around three seconds to a minute, and grinding patterns are reasonably consistent throughout this period. Sadly, bruxism usually happens many years before it is spotted by a dentist or sleep physician. If untreated, the night grinding and clenching will certainly take a toll on the structure of your teeth.

Our qualified dental team is trained and ready to diagnose and treat any signs of bruxism. For more information, visit our dental services page.

How can Bruxism be treated?

Prevention is better than cure! This is certainly true for all dental problems. The most efficient and effective way to treat bruxism is using mouth splints (night-time mouth guards). They are designed to be worn at night while you sleep and protect your teeth from the constant, high-level pressure that bruxism causes.

These custom made night-time mouthguards fit perfectly and comfortably over your teeth. They are acrylic-made and protect both the upper and lower jaws. In addition to dental guards, those with bruxism can help relieve night clenching and grinding using stress-reduction therapy and a lower intake of beverage stimulants like coffee and alcohol.

For instances where the teeth have been severely ground down, it can be a benefit to restore them. The procedure for this uses tooth-coloured material and is a simple and painless process.

Muscle relaxants and injectable therapies are also available for those who suffer from aching jaw muscles and soreness caused by teeth grinding. It also helps to relax the muscles and stop them from clenching so tightly.

If you think you or your partner/spouse might have bruxism, you may like to speak with your dentist. Diagnosing bruxism in the preliminary stages will go a long way to reducing the impact and damage it will cause to the structure of your teeth.

Please make an appointment to see one of our qualified dental team at Maude Street Dental.