subject: Teeth Grinding Is Bad For More Than Just Your Teeth [print this page] If you haven't heard it before, grinding your teeth together can be very bad for them and other surrounding mouth and jaw structures, sometimes even including the head.
Grinding or clenching your teeth is actually a condition clinically referred to as bruxism. It can occur anytime during the day or night, and is most often unconsciously.
When it occurs at night, it most often takes place during sleep. A little known fact about teeth grinding is that it occurs about as often as snoring. It is just not as noticeable by as many people because it is quieter.
Many doctors believe it is because of stress, and dentists add that it may also be because of the misalignment of teeth. There are many other reasons that people may grind their teeth, it almost always varies from person to person.
Children may also develop teeth grinding habits, but most of these will disappear as they mature into an adult. If you are a parent of a child who grinds their teeth, it is still important to get it checked with your local dentist so that it doesn't become a habit and to make sure there is nothing seriously wrong.
Also if your child has already lost their baby teeth it is especially important to have their teeth checked if you notice they are often grinding or clenching their teeth. This is because part of the reason that these children outgrow their grinding habit is because they lose their baby teeth and the habit often doesn't come back when their adult teeth grow in.
Teeth grinding in teenagers and adults is not a serious health issue, but can cause problems in the future. These problems may include mouth, jaw, face problems, broken dentures and missing teeth.
Dentists are the number one source for identifying the problems associated with teeth grinding and clenching issues and these issues shouldn't be taken lightly. Diagnosis of bruxism is usually done at a dentist's office or a dental clinic.
Symptoms and causes vary so treatment also varies. If you are suffering from stress induced bruxism, dentists may refer you to a psychiatrist to help you overcome your stress and the problems it causes.
If, however, your dentist determines that it's just a misalignment of your teeth you will most likely just receive a mouth night guard from your dentist to protect your teeth.
Bruxism problems may increase if not treated properly and jaw problems may occur. Please see your local dentist if you have not already, to be treated properly if you believe you may have this condition.
by: Jack Landry
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