There is an increasing number of Australians grinding their teeth, according to the Vice President of the Australian Dental Association (ADA), Scott Davis. This revelation comes with a warning that teeth clenching can create long term, irreparable damage.

Teeth grinding (a.k.a. bruxism) can occur both while asleep and during times of intense stress or anxiety. Regardless of when it occurs, it can become a serious condition that should be prevented as soon as possible before it leads to more serious teeth-related problems.

In this article, we will cover the subject of teeth grinding; including what it is, what the effects are on your teeth, and how you can stop it. 

What is teeth grinding?

Teeth grinding is a condition where a person unconsciously clenches or grinds their teeth, usually during sleep, but it can also happen during the day. Mild bruxism may not cause any significant problems, but chronic or severe bruxism can lead to a range of dental and health issues.

Why is teeth grinding a problem?

Teeth grinding can cause tooth damage, such as cracked or chipped teeth, as well as wear down the tooth enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity and decay. It can also cause jaw pain, headaches, and earaches, and over time, can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. In addition, bruxism can disrupt sleep and cause daytime fatigue and mood disturbances.

What are the causes of teeth grinding?

The causes of teeth grinding are not entirely understood, but it is believed to be related to stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, and certain medications. It can also be a habit that develops over time. The increase in Australian cases has been attributed to the distress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on mental health.

If left untreated, teeth grinding can lead to more severe dental problems and affect a person’s quality of life. It is important to seek treatment for bruxism to prevent further damage and manage symptoms effectively.

What are the Causes of teeth grinding in children?

Teeth grinding can also occur in children usually after they have developed their baby teeth or during the development of their permanent teeth. Typically teeth grinding in children is temporary, as they grow out of this habit once their adult teeth have come through. The causes of teeth grinding in children are similar to adults, but more commonly associated with mouth breathing problems and misaligned teeth, especially during the teenage years.

What treatments can help to stop teeth grinding in my sleep?

There are many different ways to stop teeth grinding in your sleep, including;

Wear a mouth guard

A mouth guard, also known as a night guard or occlusal splint, is an effective treatment option for managing teeth grinding during sleep. It works by creating a physical barrier between the upper and lower teeth, which prevents them from grinding together.

When you clench or grind your teeth, the muscles in the jaw contract, which can lead to tension and discomfort. By using a mouth guard, the pressure is distributed evenly across the teeth and jaw, reducing muscle tension and preventing tooth damage. The guard also helps to cushion the teeth and absorb the force of grinding, which reduces the risk of tooth fracture or wear.

Mouth guards are usually custom-fitted by a dentist or orthodontist to ensure a comfortable fit and maximum effectiveness. They are made from a durable material that can withstand the pressure of grinding and can be worn on either the upper or lower teeth, depending on your needs.

Reduce your stress before you go to sleep

Stress is a common trigger for teeth grinding, particularly before you go to sleep. When you’re under stress, you may clench or grind your teeth as a way of releasing tension. Therefore, reducing stress can be an effective way to manage and stop teeth grinding during sleep.

There are many different ways to reduce stress, including relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga and meditation, talking to a therapist, adopting a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise, and in some cases medication.

Improve your sleep hygiene

Sleep hygiene refers to the habits and practices that promote good quality sleep. Poor sleep hygiene contributes to the conditions that can lead to the development of bruxism. 

There are multiple ways to improve your sleep hygiene, including;

  • Establishing a regular sleep routine, as going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can help regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle, promoting better sleep quality and reducing the likelihood of teeth grinding.
  • Avoiding stimulating activities before bed; because activities that are stimulating, such as watching TV or using electronic devices, can interfere with sleep quality and increase the likelihood of teeth grinding.
  • Creating a sleep-conducive environment, as is important to create a dark, quiet, and comfortable sleeping space to promote relaxation and reduce teeth grinding.
  • Avoiding alcohol and caffeine, because they can disrupt sleep and exacerbate teeth grinding.

Assess any current medication you may be taking

If you are taking medication and experiencing symptoms of teeth grinding, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about the possibility of a medication-related cause. They may be able to adjust the dosage or switch to a different medication to help alleviate the symptoms.

For example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are commonly used to treat depression and anxiety, have been linked to bruxism in some people.

It is also important to note that some medications, such as muscle relaxants, may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms of bruxism. However, these should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they can have side effects and interact with other medications.

How can a dentist help me with my grinding teeth in sleep?

It is important to seek professional help and treatment for teeth grinding to prevent further damage and manage associated symptoms effectively. A dentist can help you with conditions caused by teeth grinding in several ways, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition.

Diagnosis

A dentist can diagnose teeth grinding by examining your teeth and jaw for signs of wear and damage, as well as asking about your symptoms and medical history.

Mouth guard or splint

A dentist can fit you with a custom-made mouth guard or splint to wear at night, which can help protect your teeth from further damage and alleviate symptoms of teeth grinding.

Dental work

If teeth grinding has caused significant tooth damage, a dentist can repair or replace damaged teeth, such as with dental bonding, fillings, or crowns.

Botox injections

In some cases, a dentist may use Botox injections to help reduce the muscle activity that causes teeth grinding.

Referral to a specialist

If teeth grinding is severe or related to an underlying medical or psychological condition, a dentist may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment.

How do I get effective treatment for conditions caused by grinding teeth in sleep from Greenvale Dental Group?

If you’re looking for a dentist who can help you get effective treatment for conditions caused by grinding teeth in sleep, contact us at Greenvale Dental Group and we will provide you with a modern, caring approach to your dental health.