How to Stop Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common problem that can affect people of all ages. It can be a nuisance, but it can also lead to serious dental problems, such as:
- Worn-down teeth
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Tooth loss
- Gum recession
- Jaw pain
- Headaches
- Earaches
There are two main types of teeth grinding:
- Awake bruxism: This type of teeth grinding occurs while you are awake. It is often caused by stress, anxiety, or anger.
- Sleep bruxism: This type of teeth grinding occurs while you are asleep. It is often caused by a misaligned bite, TMJ disorder, or other sleep disorders.
If you think you may be grinding your teeth, there are several things you can do to stop:
- Reduce stress: Stress is a major cause of teeth grinding. Find ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can both worsen teeth grinding.
- Get a custom-fitted mouthguard: A mouthguard can help to protect your teeth from the damage caused by grinding.
- See a dentist: If you have been grinding your teeth for a long time, you may have already caused damage to your teeth. See a dentist to have your teeth checked and to get treatment for any damage.
FAQ
What are the symptoms of teeth grinding?
The symptoms of teeth grinding can include:
- Worn-down teeth
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Tooth loss
- Gum recession
- Jaw pain
- Headaches
- Earaches
What are the causes of teeth grinding?
The causes of teeth grinding can include:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Anger
- Misaligned bite
- TMJ disorder
- Sleep disorders
How is teeth grinding diagnosed?
Your dentist can diagnose teeth grinding by examining your teeth and asking you about your symptoms.
How is teeth grinding treated?
The treatment for teeth grinding will depend on the underlying cause. Your dentist may recommend:
- Stress management techniques
- Avoiding caffeine and alcohol
- Getting a custom-fitted mouthguard
- Seeing a specialist for treatment of TMJ disorder or sleep disorders
