My doctor says that I clench or grind my teeth

What is Bruxism?

Austin Dentist - Teeth Grinding Bruxism, often referred to as gnashing, is the act of involuntary teeth grinding, either while awake or asleep, which results primarily in tooth damage and in some instances jaw pain. It has been estimated that nocturnal bruxism occurs in 5% to 20% of adults and is even more prevalent in children. The International Classification of Sleep Disorders (ICSD) classifies tooth grinding during sleep as one of the parasomnias. It is found most often in non-REM sleep stages, mostly in stage 2, although it can occur in REM sleep. Bruxism occurs an average of 25 times per night, in four- to five-second episodes. Thus, people with bruxism may grind their teeth for more than two minutes during just one night's sleep. Nocturnal bruxism is especially problematic because it's usually not detected until the teeth are affected, which can take years.

Why is bruxism a problem?

The masseter, or jaw muscle, is the strongest muscle in the human body. The 1992 Guinness Book of Records records the achievement of a bite strength of 975 lbf (4337 N) for two seconds. Repeated stress caused by contracting this muscle can cause irreversible damage to our teeth and jaw joint. Chronic pressure may cause damage to the disc of cartilage that provides cushion and a proper range of motion in our jaw joint.

People who have history of bruxism often will have fracture lines evident in their teeth. These teeth, especially if they are sensitive when chewing hard or tough foods, may require crowns or onlays to prevent breakage and/or the need for root canal therapy. Additionally, a habit of clenching or grinding can shorten our front teeth thereby taking away a once radiant and youthful smile.

Wouldn't I know if I were clenching or grinding my teeth?

Because it is an involuntary activity that most often occurs while sleeping, many people have no idea that they suffer from bruxism. Some people experience muscular discomfort, jaw pain or even headaches from clenching or grinding their teeth. But not everyone has symptoms. Many people become aware that they are clenching or grinding only after they visit their dentist. Bruxism often causes enamel wear or tooth fracture that a dentist my spot during regular check-ups.

I routinely snore during my sleep. How could I possibly be clenching or grinding my teeth?

Studies have shown that sleep disordered breathing (snoring, breathing pauses during sleep, and obstructive sleep apnea) were significantly more frequent in people who clench or grind their teeth. One study, based on 13,057 participants, showed that Obstructive sleep apnea was almost 6 times more prevalent in people who grind their teeth.

It has been postulated that the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and sleep bruxism is usually related to an arousal response. The ending of an apneic event may be accompanied by a number of mouth phenomena, such as snoring, gasps, mumbles, and tooth grinding.

What causes Bruxism?

The causes of bruxism are not entirely understood but several factors may precede its occurrence or increase its severity. These factors include stress, facial or oral trauma, nervous system malfunction, poor diet, allergies, alcohol and drugs, and/or an abnormal bite. Although bruxism is found in all age groups it is most prevalent between the ages of 19 and 44 years old.

What if I hear my child grinding their teeth?

Bruxism is very common in children. Because children are undergoing a tremendous amount of craniofacial growth and development, a night guard (occlusal splint therapy) is not a treatment option. Fortunately, most children stop grinding by the time they enter adolescence and damage is often limited to primary (baby) teeth. These same children may likely resume the habit as adults and ultimately require treatment.

As an adult, what can I do if I clench or grind my teeth?

Your dentist may suggest a nightguard (occlusal bite splint) that can be worn while sleeping. Custom made by your dentist from a hard acrylic material to fit your teeth, the night guard fits over the upper teeth and prevents contact between them. In addition to physically protecting the teeth, the nightguard helps relieve some of the pressure from grinding and clenching which can damage the delicate jaw joints.

Dr. Mike Meek and David Tasch DDS - Providing cosmetic dentistry and smile makeovers to the Austin, Texas area.