You would think that you would know if you had a problem with grinding your teeth – the habit, which may even be done without the person realizing they are doing it – typically has a distinct sound. The good news is that teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is treatable, and you may be able to stop the habit with a little bit of help from your prosthodontist.
Understanding Bruxism
When you involuntarily and regularly grind your teeth, you may have bruxism. Bruxism can occur when you are awake or when you are asleep. It is difficult to pinpoint exactly what causes people to grind their teeth. It can be caused by stress, frustration, anger, or anxiety. The habit tends to be more common in children and in people with more aggressive or hyperactive personalities. In some cases, bruxism is related to an abnormal bite or teeth alignment.
Grinding Your Teeth Leaves an Impact
If you leave your bruxism untreated, it could have a lasting impact on your oral health and general well-being. Constantly grinding your teeth can wear down the enamel, putting your teeth at risk of fracturing, chipping, loosening, or increasing their sensitivity. There are other negative effects of prolonged teeth grinding as well:
- Increased headaches
- Pain in the face, jaw, and neck
- Damage to the interior cheek
- Restless sleep