Tooth grinding can cause wear and tear on the teeth, but also result in a myriad of other problems, says Jerry Massimei, D.D.S., A.P.C., a dentist who specializes in providing gentle, experienced dental care to residents in Chula Vista, Eastlake and Bonita, California. He runs his own practice, Jerry Massimei Dentistry, and talks here on what bruxism is all about.
Bruxism is grinding of the teeth and/or clenching of the teeth that can injure them, wear them down, and also cause damage to the TMJ, or temporal mandibular joints. In some cases, it may not require treatment. But usually if it is not treated, it can cause a host of conditions, ranging from jaw disorders to headaches and damaged teeth.
Gender Differences
Teeth grinidng can produce some severe conditions, especially in women because the average woman’s jaw is weaker. The average man who clenches or grinds his teeth at night, called sleep bruxism, or clenches them in the day, destroys his teeth and wearing them down.
Usually, however, women who grind their teeth end up with more than just destroyed teeth. They get migraine headaches, pain in the jaw, lockjaw, grating or grinding sounds when opening or closing their mouths. That can lead to an entire imbalance of the neurology of the brain, which can affect many parts of a person’s life and their ability to function.
Why People Grind Their Teeth
It’s not known why people grind their teeth. On the East coast, it is claimed there is less problem with it than on the West coast. That is my observation. I was a dentist in New York for 20 years, and observed that during my time there and on the West coast where I am now.
We don’t know why exactly but I know for sure my patients in New York experienced one-tenth of the effects of teeth grinding than my patients here in California. It could have to do with lifestyle, or with irritants in the air. Any irritant can cause a person to clench or grind his teeth, as can and sleep emotional problems. Children who grind their teeth may do so in response to earache or because of the growth and development of their jaws and teeth.
Treatment for teeth grinding may require surgery. But usually all that is needed is that an individual wear a night guard to stop it from occurring. If you or someone you know suffers from teeth grinding, see your dentist as soon as possible to discuss what to do about it.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
