Bruxism is the name for teeth grinding and clenching. This usually happens while one sleeps and is often seen in children. Kids who have a bruxism habit usually don’t suffer as a result and grow out of it; however, adults who grind and clench their teeth chronically can develop dental problems. Keep reading to learn a little more about bruxism and how you can treat it.
Causes Of Bruxism

  • Stress and anxiety
  • Abnormal bite
  • Sleep disorders
  • Crooked or missing teeth
  • Stimulants (caffeine, tobacco, etc)

Symptoms Of Bruxism

  • Headaches (especially in the morning)
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Jaw pain
  • TMJ disorder
  • Loose or broken teeth
  • Neck or ear aches
  • Your partner can hear you grinding
  • Facial pain
  • Swelling in the lower jaw

Treatments For Bruxism

  • Wearing a night guard
  • Reducing stress through exercise, meditation, or counseling
  • Taking muscle relaxants
  • Cutting down on stimulants (like caffeine and tobacco)
  • Replacing missing teeth
  • Fixing a bad bite

We invite you to visit Dr. Andrew W Henritze, DDS if you think that you chronically grind or clench your teeth while sleeping. When we treat this condition, you can feel comfortable, sleep more easily, and benefit from stronger teeth and improved dental health.