Do you grind your teeth while you sleep?

Are you sleeping as well as you'd like, or do you wake up tired after a "full night's" sleep?  You might be grinding your teeth, a condition known as "bruxism," while you sleep.  A 2011 poll by the National Sleep Foundation found that nearly two thirds of adults, and 90% of teens say that their sleep needs are not being met.

This inadequacy might be for many reasons, but sometimes the blame lies in sleep disorders, such as bruxism.  

Sleep Bruxism is defined as the involuntary or habitual grinding of teeth, typically during sleep. 70% of people demonstrate some kind of bruxing behavior, and for at least 8% of adults, it can have a major impact on your overall dental health.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=R6khn0O8ugE  

Are You A Sleeping Bruxer?

Since it usually happens during sleep, it may be hard to know if you’re grinding your teeth.  These are some of the symptoms:

• Constant waking while sleeping
• Regular headaches
• A sore jaw or neck
• Worn-down, flattened teeth
• Do your family members grind their teeth?  Bruxism may also be hereditary.

How Bruxism Affects Your Oral Health

Bruxism can affect your dental treatment since it puts extra stress on your mouth causing damage to your teeth and existing dental work. It can result in fracturing, loosening, and even tooth loss. It places a lot of strain on your jaw and cranial muscles, which can lead to more serious problems. 

How To Avoid Teeth Grinding

1. Cut back on caffeine, alcohol consumption, and tobacco use.
2. Don’t chew on anything that is not food (pencils and pens are for writing).
3. If you suspect that anxiety contributes to your bruxism, ask your doctor about options to help reduce stress.
4. Consider a night mouth guard (a well-fitting night guard can relieve strain, cause your jaw to relax at night, and greatly reduce grinding and clenching).
5. The good news is that sometimes dental treatment, or even braces, can stop bruxism!  

If you are experiencing bruxism, or would like to discuss any other dental concerns, please visit us: www.drChang.com