Teeth grinding is clinically referred to as bruxism. Simply defined, it is the act of consciously or unconsciously clenching your teeth either during the day or while you sleep. Bruxism is considered both a medical and a dental problem. This is because it affects both the teeth and all of the structure near it, including the head.

Teeth grinding usually happens during sleep. Have you ever had a roommate or a sleeping partner that snores? Well you might have had one that grinds their teeth in their sleep as well. Teeth grinding is as common as snoring. However, unlike snoring, teeth grinding sounds are a little on the low side, although it can be as bothersome as well.

People grind their teeth for a number of reasons. Doctors believe that it is because of stress. Dentists say that it happens because one’s teeth are not properly aligned with each other. There are quite a few reasons why people grind their teeth. To know more about teeth grinding causes, read this article.

Teeth grinding happens in kids too. Some parents might find it disturbing to hear their child grinding their teeth in their sleep. While it is really not as big of a problem for kids as it is for adults, it is still proper to bring your child to a dentist so that their teeth are checked. Children normally outgrow their teeth grinding habits. If you would like to learn how teeth grinding affects children, check out this article.

Kids usually outgrow teeth grinding because their teeth are not yet permanent. Eventually, their baby teeth will be replaced with a permanent set that’s stronger, better, and more aligned.
However, the same can’t be said for adults. Adult teeth are permanent and will not change any longer. Therefore, adults should watch out for the complications of teeth grinding.

Teeth grinding, although it is not a major health issue, can bring about problems like mouth, jaw, and face problems, broken dentures, missing teeth, and many others. It is very important for adults to consult a dentist so that their teeth grinding habit is addressed before any further problems develop.

.

Tagged with: • • • •

Filed under: teeth grinding

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!