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Tooth grinding is a common condition, also known as bruxism,  however, people often don’t know that they grind their teeth until their dentist points it out to them. Constant grinding can wear down the enamel on your teeth, which can make them vulnerable to breaking or becoming sensitive.

How do I stop grinding my teeth?

There are a number of ways you can reduce grinding your teeth, these include wearing a nightguard, having your bite adjusted, jaw exercises, relaxing before bed, massaging your jaw muscles, noticing when you are clenching if you are doing it during the day and trying to stop.

Why do people grind their teeth?

Tooth grinding is often caused by anxiety and stress. However, this isn’t the only reason that people grind their teeth. It often occurs in your sleep and you don’t know anything about it. It can be caused by missing or crooked teeth, an abnormal bite or occasionally sleep disorders. Drinking alcohol can also make it worse.

What does grinding your teeth in your sleep mean?

Teeth grinding in your sleep is often due to stress or anxiety. Some people will suffer from headaches or facial pain, whilst wearing down their teeth over time. Most people aren’t aware that they grind their teeth, often it’s their dentist that will point it out to them first or it’s the person who you sleep with who complains about the noise!

Can teeth heal from grinding?

Children often grow out of grinding and adults may not grind severely enough to need any treatment or intervention. However, for the more severe cases use of a nightguard or use therapy to reduce the grinding and therefore stress on the teeth.

Do teeth grinding guards work?

A custom-made nightguard is worth investing in if you grind your teeth. They fit better than a shop-bought generic guard, providing better comfort. Nightguards work by not only putting a barrier between your teeth and protecting them, but also can reduce the muscle activity that is causing the grinding.

If you have any concerns about your teeth or gums, please call Evolve Dentistry in Portishead on 01275 842 550. We’d be happy to see you as a new patient, where we will carry out a full check of your oral health and discuss any concerns or issues that you may be experiencing.

Take a look at our CQC report