Grinding your teeth at night? The causes and solutions to bruxism

Grinding your teeth at night? The causes and solutions to bruxism

Between 8-10% of the UK population grind their teeth. In bruxism, as it’s officially known, the teeth move against each other. This typically occurs during sleep. You might not be aware of it.

Teeth grinding can cause issues like tooth wear and fractures. Especially if it goes untreated. Headaches and jaw pain are also common. Dealing with bruxism early can prevent lasting damage. And it can help avoid more serious health problems later.

What is bruxism and why does it matter?

Bruxism is the medical term for grinding your teeth. It often occurs during sleep. Many don’t realise they have it. Being unaware doesn’t mean it doesn’t cause problems.

Grinding your teeth puts them under a lot of pressure. It wears down the enamel. And they become more vulnerable to damage or decay. Treating bruxism early helps avoid issues like increased sensitivity or tooth fractures.

Some people also experience jaw pain and headaches. The pressure on the jaw muscles can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. It can be painful to chew or even talk.

Grinding your teeth at night also disrupts your sleep. You may be unaware of it but it can leave you feeling tired during the day. Untreated, the condition can lead to costly treatments. This is why it’s important to spot it early.

How to recognise bruxism

There are two types of bruxism: sleep bruxism and awake bruxism. If you’re doing it in your sleep, here are some possible signs:

• Facial pain
• Jaw pain
• Jaw stiffness
• Jaw clicking, popping, or grinding when you move it
• Sensitive teeth
• Loose or broken teeth
• Worn teeth
• Loose or broken fillings

Sometimes people also have ear pain because the TMJ is close to the ear. Referred pain (where you feel pain somewhere other than the source) is also possible.

Though people with sleep bruxism can’t tell they’re doing it, people who sleep near them may be able to hear it.

Awake bruxism is different. You might not grind your teeth. People tend to clench their teeth instead, or tense their jaw muscles. You may experience:

• Aching jaw muscles
• Jaw stiffness
• Dull headaches

The teeth may not wear down, though, because there is no grinding.

Causes of bruxism

Bruxism has various causes. Sometimes there is more than one reason why you’re grinding your teeth.

Physical causes

Physical causes include:

Misaligned teeth. When the teeth aren’t properly aligned, the jaw moves in a way that can lead to grinding.

• Misaligned teeth. When the teeth aren’t properly aligned, the jaw moves in a way that can lead to grinding.
• An abnormal bite. If the upper and lower teeth don’t meet evenly.
• Sleep apnoea. People with this condition often suffer from bruxism. Sleep apnoea affects nighttime breathing and leads to poor sleep quality.

Psychological causes

Causes of bruxism can also be psychological. One of the biggest causes is stress. People who feel anxious or under pressure are more likely to grind their teeth. This is especially true overnight.

Consuming caffeine and alcohol also increases the chances of grinding your teeth. With caffeine, the body is ‘stressed.’ Alcohol, however, disrupts your sleep. This can lead to clenching of the jaw or grinding of the teeth.

Other causes

There may be other root causes to bruxism too. There is likely to be a genetic factor since it can run in families. If your parents or siblings have bruxism, you may be more likely to develop it too.

Certain medications can also cause bruxism. Medications like antidepressants or psychiatric drugs can have side effects that include teeth grinding. If you’re on medication, ask your doctor if it could be contributing to the problem.

Solutions and treatments for teeth grinding

There are several ways to treat teeth grinding. These include dental solutions and lifestyle changes:

Mouthguards and splints

A mouthguard is a common available treatment. It is a soft, plastic device you wear over your teeth during sleep. It’s a bit like a gum shield used for sports.

Mouthguards protect the teeth from grinding and clenching. They are custom-made by taking an impression of your teeth.

Another option is a splint. This fits over the teeth and is designed to reduce the pressure from grinding. Both mouthguards and splints protect teeth and help reduce jaw pain.

Lifestyle changes

You can reduce bruxism through some changes to your daily habits:

• Managing stress. Finding ways to relax can help. Reducing stress through deep breathing, meditation, or gentle exercise can reduce the issue.
• Limiting caffeine. Less caffeine means less stress. And better sleep. Teeth grinding is less likely.
• Reducing alcohol intake. Reducing alcohol intake improves sleep quality. This means you will be less likely to grind your teeth.

Making these changes can reduce the frequency of teeth grinding. You’ll sleep better, feel better and protect your teeth.

Key Takeaways

Bruxism is common and it can cause serious issues. Here are some things to remember:

1. There are warning signs. Saw jaw, sensitive teeth and headaches could mean you’re grinding your teeth.
2. Solutions are available. Mouthguards, stress management, and lifestyle changes can help reduce grinding.
3. Early action is key. Spotting it and treating it early can prevent long-term damage and costly treatments.

If you’re concerned about facial pain or teeth grinding, book an appointment with Ringway Dental to discuss the best option for you.

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