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Teeth grinding (bruxism) is clenching or grinding the teeth. Teeth grinding eventually wears down and damages teeth. Artificial dental crowns (made of gold, porcelain, or both) can be fractured, perforated, and damaged, although if porcelain is on the chewing surface, the opposing tooth may be the one that wears. Some people also develop headaches and neck and/or jaw pain because of the repeated muscle tightening.
People who grind and clench their teeth usually do not do so intentionally. The clenching is unconscious and is usually most severe during sleep. Even though they are asleep, people may clench down with a force of up to 250 pounds because there is no active protective feedback mechanism. Because it is worst during sleep, people may not be aware that they clench their teeth, but family members often notice.
Treatment
While awake, people must consciously try not to clench their teeth. While sleeping, they can wear plastic oral appliances (night guards) that fit between the teeth. The night guards prevent the teeth from grinding together. People with severe teeth grinding and clenching may also need to wear the guards during the day. Usually, these appliances are made by a dentist and adjusted to the person's needs. For some people, such as those whose only problem is tooth wear, dentists may recommend use of an over-the-counter guard that can be heat-molded at home (like tooth guards for athletes). People should have a dental evaluation before using such devices.
Sometimes, doctors give people an anti-anxiety drug such as a benzodiazepine for a short time while the night guard is being made. These drugs are not used for long periods.
Last full review/revision August 2012 by David F. Murchison, DDS, MMS
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