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Conditions | Grinding Teeth
What Is Bruxism (Grinding Teeth)?
"Keep a stiff
upper lip" or "get a grip!" That's
often the advice we get—and give—on
how to cope with stress.
If you take it
literally, the result could be
grinding your teeth or clenching
your jaws. It's called bruxism, and
often it happens as we sleep, caused
not just by stress and anxiety but
by sleep disorders, an abnormal bite
or teeth that are missing or
crooked.
 Symptoms include a dull headache or
a sore jaw.
You could have
teeth that are painful or loose from
severe grinding. This can lead to
fractures in your teeth.
Your dentist
can fit you with a mouth guard to
protect your teeth during sleep.
If stress is
the cause you need to find a way to
relax! Physical therapy, muscle
relaxants, counseling and even
exercise may help reduce tension.
Don't make
your teeth the brunt of your stress.
Information provided by the ADA, American
Dental Association,
www.ada.org
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