A fancy word that means something very simple, yet potentially very dangerous. Bruxism is unconscious the grinding or gnashing of teeth. Many people across this country and beyond have a problem with this, which is often accompanied with a tight clenching of the jaw, but those that face the problem while asleep are at the greatest risk of resulting complications.

Bruxism is generally caused by the subconscious. It is a sort of habit. Unfortunately, overnight, while the body rests, the subconscious cannot be controlled, thus the grinding and gnashing can continue for hours on end. This can be a lifelong habit or one brought on by illness, allergy, trauma, or excess stress.

Many sufferers can go years without ever being aware of the problem, simply because it takes place while they are sleeping. However, a dental visit can usually detect signs of the problem.

Fortunately, in ninety-five percent of all cases, the person will not have any problems resulting from the bruxism. Yet, for the minority, there is the potential for serious trauma to the jaw, tooth fractures, and more. This condition is actually a leading cause of receding gums and tooth loss.

Symptoms of bruxism include anxiety, stress, depression, earache, headaches, migraines, loose teeth, neck pain, sore jaw, and more. If left untreated, bruxism can lead to arthritis in the temporomandibular joints (hinges of the jaw) as well as myofascial muscle pain.

Unusual wear of the teeth can be the most telling sign of a problem, yet Bruxism is not the only cause of wear and tear, making it difficult, at times, to determine if clenching and grinding are to blame.

There are other tests that can be done in a sleep lab or even bedside in your own home to determine the severity of the condition. EMG units or biofeedback headbands can be used for this purpose.

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