What is Bruxism?

Have you ever woken up in the morning with an aching mouth or jaw and wondered why? Have you ever been told “you grind your teeth.” If you answered yes to either of these questions, you may have bruxism. Bruxism is the formal name for grinding or clenching your teeth. It can take place in the day time, but more commonly bruxism occurs at night, when you’re asleep.

Bruxism is common among children who still have all of their baby teeth and children whose permanent teeth are starting to grow in. The cause of bruxism is unknown; however, dentists believe it has something to do with a person’s “bite.” A bite refers to the way the top and bottom teeth fit together. Stress may also be a contributing factor. With stress, your body can react to those anxious feelings through the grinding or clenching of teeth.

Many children and young adults grind their teeth at some point. Grinding, most of the time, doesn't cause permanent damage to your teeth. The most significant damage that occurs is worn tooth enamel, but if your bruxism is causing headaches, a sore face or jaw, it may be a good idea to give your dentist a call. The remedy for bruxism is most often a night guard, which is a piece of plastic, similar to a mouth guard that athletes wear. A night guard is worn at night and is fitted specifically for your teeth and mouth to prevent teeth grinding.