Are you gnashing your teeth?

What does gnashing your teeth mean?

Teeth gnashing, also known as bruxism, is a medical condition wherein a person has the habit of grinding, grating or clenching their teeth. Bruxism involves any forceful contact between the teeth, whether it is silent or loud. Research reveals that 50 to 95 per cent of adults suffer from bruxism, and approximately 15 per cent of all children are also diagnosed with the condition. Although the exact causes of the problem are unknown, experts believe that bruxism occurs due to psychological stress. There are two types of bruxism – awake bruxism – when the person unconsciously clenches their teeth while awake; sleep bruxism – when the person grinds or gnashes their teeth while asleep. People who grasp or gnash their teeth during sleep are more likely to develop sleeping disorders like snoring and pauses in breathing (sleep apnea). Mild bruxism may not mandate any medical assistance. However, in some instances, when bruxism is frequent and severe, the patient may develop jaw disorders, headaches, damaged teeth and other issues.

Causes of bruxism

Bruxism comes as an accompaniment to certain sleep disorders. Also, drinking alcohol and taking certain medications may worsen the condition of teeth gnashing. Misaligned teeth may also play a causative role and determine the severity of bruxism. Many a time, children develop bruxism as a response to colds or other infections. Studies show that people with compulsive, controlling or aggressive personalities have an increased probability of suffering from bruxism. 

Symptoms of teeth-gnashing

To properly understand the dental care related to bruxism, it becomes crucial to understand the symptoms first.

• Grinding or clenching of teeth is the primary symptom of bruxism. Mostly, the gnashing sounds are loud enough to wake the person sleeping beside you.
• Flat, fractured, loose or chipped teeth are other signs of bruxism.
• You may experience enhanced pain in the teeth or sensitivity.
• Fatigued and tight jaw muscles or a locked jaw are telling signs of bruxism.
• Jaw and neck pain or soreness is another symptom of teeth gnashing.
• Sleep disruption 

Complications

Although complications from bruxism are rare, severe bruxism can result in extreme facial and jaw pains and tension-type headaches. Teeth, crown and gums may also experience damage due to severe bruxism. Sometimes, it can also cause temporomandibular joints disorders that occur in front of the ears, wherein the person may hear a clicking sound while closing or opening their mouth.

Teeth gnashing and dental care

In case you feel that you may be suffering from bruxism, consult your dentist immediately. Furthermore, if the symptoms are unpleasant, don’t waste time. Some of the treatment of bruxism involves behaviour modification such as stress management or relaxation therapy. Often, dentists use mechanical devices like mouth guards to protect the teeth if grinding and clenching. Alternative treatments like hypnosis and biofeedback therapies have also shown positive results while dealing with bruxism.

Please visit your nearest dentist at the earliest if you are feeling discomfort in your teeth or gums.

Book Appointment to find out which treatment might be best for you.