Bruxism
Grinding or clenching the teeth, usually at night, which wears the enamel over time.
What it is
Bruxism means grinding or clenching the teeth, most often in your sleep, without realising. Often a partner notices first, from the noise, or the dentist, from the wear on the teeth.
The signs
Worn or chipped teeth, sensitivity, aching face muscles or jaw joint in the morning, headaches, fillings or veneers that break.
What can be done
Most often, a protective night guard made to the shape of your teeth, which takes the force and protects the enamel. Stress and habits matter too. Before veneers or crowns, bruxism has to be taken into account so the work lasts.
If you wake with a tired jaw, mention it at your check-up: it shows on the teeth before it does serious damage.
Reviewed by Dr. Voinea ·
CMDR Romania · Galați University of Medicine and Pharmacy · General Dentistry