TOOTH GRINDING

General Information

DEFINITION--The habit of grinding teeth. Tooth-grinding is often done while asleep, but grinding or tapping teeth during the day is also common. Continual tooth-grinding may erode gums and supporting bones in the mouth.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Teeth; gums; temperomandibular joints.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--Both sexes; all ages.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Frequent contraction of muscles on the side of the face.
• Annoying, tooth-grinding noises at night. These may be loud enough to awaken others.
• Upon waking, teeth feel loose or sore.
• Slight throbbing of jaw.
• Damaged teeth, supporting gums and bone (apparent in a dental exam).
• Headaches.

CAUSES

• Anxiety.
• Unconscious attempts to correct a faulty "bite" (contact between upper and lower teeth when jaws are closed).

RISK INCREASES WITH

• Stress.
• Anxiety.
• Alcoholism.

HOW TO PREVENT--Avoid stressful situations if possible (see How to Cope with Stress in Appendix)

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a dentist.
• X-rays of the mouth.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Self-care after diagnosis.
• Dentist's care. Your dentist may manufacture, fit and install a night-guard prosthesis to prevent tooth-grinding while asleep. A night-guard prosthesis consists of removable splints that fit over the tops of the teeth to eliminate incorrect biting pressure.
• Biofeedback training (relaxation exercises) or counseling to learn ways to cope more effectively with stress.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Without treatment, teeth, bones and gums may erode from the pressure of grinding.
• May lead to temporomandibular joint syndrome.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Usually curable in 6 months with treatment.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES--

• Try to keep your jaw relaxed with your teeth slightly apart.
• Be sure you are using good posture. Don't hunch over your work area, don't cradle a phone between your shoulder and your ear, use proper chair height.
• Use warm compresses on your jaw area. This can help relax the clenching muscles.

MEDICATION--Medicine usually is not necessary for this disorder. Your doctor may prescribe a tranquilizer or a sedative for short-term treatment in certain cases.

ACTIVITY--Maintain a regular exercise routine. It is helpful to relieve stress.

DIET--

• Avoid alcohol.
• Avoid (or decrease) your intake of caffeine.
• Don't chew gum or nibble on pencils.