I grind my teeth a lot. I especially grind my teeth while I’m sitting in the passenger side of our car and my teenage son is operating the motor vehicle. Don’t get me wrong, he’s not doing a bad job; but since I don’t have a steering wheel or brake on my side of the car, live traffic can throw me into a tooth-grinding, loud screaming frenzy!
Many people clench or grind their teeth without being aware of it. This condition, called bruxism, can be the silent destroyer of your teeth. Clenching occurs when you press your upper and lower teeth tightly together. Grinding happens when you rub your teeth back and forth against each other. Although the cause isn’t fully understood, bruxism is often due to stress.
Over time it can cause issues including:
• Problems with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This joint connects your lower jaw to your skull. TMJ problems can lead to symptoms such as jaw pain, earache, headache, and clicking or popping noises when you open or close your mouth.
• Worn down and broken teeth. Grinding can also cause teeth to become painful and loose.
Since bruxism can damage teeth and cause jaw, head, and ear pain, it’s important to try to kick the habit. Here are some things you can do to ease the pain while breaking the cycle:
• Reduce stress. Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and spending time with people you enjoy can all help. And if your teen drives; don’t follow in my footsteps! Try doing some breathing exercises.
• Relax your face and jaw muscles. Practicing this throughout the day can help you create a habit of relaxing instead of tightening these muscles.
Tell your dentist if you clench or grind your teeth. Your dentist may suggest a type of mouth guard called a splint, a bite guard, or a night guard. There are several different types that work in different ways. Your dentist can design one that will work best for you.