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If you suffer from jaw pain, consistent earaches, headaches or have teeth that are wearing quickly, you may be grinding or clenching your teeth.
Clinically, teeth grinding and jaw clenching are known as bruxism. If frequent and severe enough, bruxism can cause significant damage to your health.
What causes teeth grinding and clenching?
- Stress or anxiety
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Snoring or sleep apnea
- Abnormal bite
- Crooked or missing teeth
How is Bruxism treated?
- Night Guards
- Bite appliances
- Stress management
- Jaw swelling management
- Alternating which side of your mouth you chew on
- Massaging or jaw muscle stretching exercises
Effects of clenching and grinding:
- Worn-down teeth
- Swollen jaw
- Damaged jaw joint (TMJ)
- Damaged dental procedure