Grinding the teeth, or bruxism as it is officially termed, is a serious dental condition in which the sufferer grinds his or her teeth during sleep. Though many are not aware that they are grinding their teeth during the night, bruxism can damage the teeth and jaw and cause headaches and facial soreness. To prevent such problems, it is important to do everything one can to stop grinding the teeth during sleep.
Unfortunately, there is no surefire way to stop grinding the teeth. Since it happens when the sufferer is unconscious, he or she has minimal control over the behavior. The most common remedy is a mouthguard or splint which prevents damage to the teeth, though it does not necessarily stop grinding behavior. Therefore, headaches and jaw soreness may persist.
A mouthguard used to treat bruxism may be custom-fitted, either through a dentist visit or by using a kit at home to make a mold of the teeth. There are also over-the-counter one-size-fits-most versions, but they do not fit as well and may be less comfortable for some users. Different patients have different experiences with mouthguards. Some find that it helps them stop grinding the teeth, while others grind their teeth more when wearing a mouthguard. For others, the mouthguard is initially effective, but becomes less so over time.
Other ways to reduce or stop grinding the teeth include reducing stress and consciously relaxing during the day and before bed, learning the correct positions in which to hold the jaw and tongue, and limiting alcohol intake. It is important to achieve adequate amounts of sleep and exercise as well. To treat jaw and muscle pain associated with bruxism, try massage and heat applications to the affected areas. Keep the teeth separated and the jaw relaxed during the day, and avoid hard or chewy foods.
In extreme and persistent cases, orthodontic adjustments or surgery may be the only way to stop grinding the teeth. While psychological and muscle memory causes are possible, bruxism may also be caused by misaligned teeth. Surgery is considered a last resort to stop grinding the teeth. However, if you know or suspect that you suffer from bruxism, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent irreversible damage to the teeth. He or she will be able to help you find the best ways for you to stop grinding your teeth.
