Signs that you might be grinding your teeth
Most people aren’t aware that they are clenching or grinding their teeth. Dentists and dental hygienists are often the first to notice the signs of teeth grinding, which include chipped or cracked teeth or worn, damaged spots along the edges of teeth. While most people grind their teeth while they’re sleeping, many also clench or grind during the day, especially when they’re feeling tense, worried or pressured.
If you are grinding your teeth, you might notice:
- Pain or tenderness in your jaw
- Dull headaches
- Plugged, painful or itchy ears
- Neck pain
Is stress the only cause of teeth grinding?
Though bruxism is usually thought of as a symptom of stress, it can also be caused by:
- Sleep disorders
- Teeth that don’t line up properly
- Missing or crooked teeth
One study revealed that teeth grinding is associated with tobacco and alcohol use. Researchers found that people who smoke or drink alcohol or coffee are twice as likely to grind their teeth as people who don’t.
Taking steps to protect your teeth
If you grind your teeth, it’s important to safeguard them from the damage this habit can do. Your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep. A custom guard, made from a special mold that your dentist creates, will give you the closest, most comfortable fit. Night guards are also sold online and in stores, but may not provide the same protection as a guard made just for you.
Keep in mind that night guards are not the same as sports guards, which are designed to protect your teeth while you’re skiing, skateboarding, or playing active sports such as hockey, football, baseball or basketball. A mouth guard designed for sports and other high-impact activities has extra cushioning that probably won’t feel comfortable for sleep.