Teeth Grinding: Causes and Cures

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxis, is a common dental condition that can cause long-term damage to your teeth as well as disturbing your alignment and leading to temporomandibular joint disorder. If you grind your teeth, you should consult with your dental provider to determine how to minimize the amount of damage done to your teeth.

Causes of Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding can occur for a variety of reasons. It can cause other problems or be a symptom of other dental issues. In some cases, the cause is uncertain. Some causes of grinding can be treated fairly easily, while others are more complex. [pullquote]Some causes of grinding can be treated fairly easily, while others are more complex. [/pullquote]

Common causes of teeth grinding include:

•    Misalignment
•    Stress
•    Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)

Teeth grinding can also occur as a side effect or symptom of TMD. Your dentist can determine if you grind your teeth by observing wear on your teeth. In some cases, someone else might notice your teeth grinding. Grinding often occurs during sleep, sometimes making it difficult to determine if you do, indeed, grind your teeth.

Cures for Teeth Grinding

If your teeth grinding is due to misalignment, the best treatment is to correct this misalignment. Treatment might include orthodontic treatment such as braces, or use of dental bonding or veneers to shift your bite enough to correct the misalignment. If you suffer from TMD, treating this condition will help reduce or eliminate your teeth grinding and prevent further damage to your teeth.

Stress is a common cause of grinding. Meditation or other stress relief techniques might reduce the frequency or intensity of your grinding. Your dentist might also recommend a device that fits over your top teeth. Wearing the device at night does not stop you from grinding your teeth, but it reduces the level of damage you will do to them. This type of night guard is available over the counter, but a custom-fitted version, provided by your dentist, is much more effective.

If you believe you are grinding your teeth and want to know your treatment options, call the office of Dr. Nicholas Kemp, serving Yorkville and surrounding areas, today to schedule a consultation.