Stop Grinding Your Teeth Away

By Dennis Nagata, D.D.S.

Are your jaws sore? Many people have the serious problem of subconsciously grinding their teeth. This continual gnashing of the teeth is an actual medical condition called bruxism. Clenching can be just as harmful. Both can lead to worn and sensitive teeth, muscle soreness due to over-exertions, headaches and other oral facial pains. Grinding and clenching occur at night or during the day when a person's attention is focused elsewhere such as driving or on daily chores. A night guard or occlusal splint that conforms to the patient's upper or lower arch may be used to provide temporary relief. A biocompatible material such as a soft ethyl vinyl acetate may be used to more comfortably introduce patients to wearing a dental appliance. The most common material is a clear occlusal splint made of hard acrylic. If you are experiencing grinding or clenching of teeth, ask your dentist for help in dealing with these problems.