Grinding, also known as bruxism, is when a person grinds their teeth frequently and unintentionally. This normally occurs during sleep, but it can also happen when awake. There are multiple reasons why someone might grind their teeth, and the more you know about them, the better you can manage your condition.

The grinding of teeth is not a disease; it’s a sign that something else is wrong with your body. It is usually an indicator of emotional stress or another dental issue.

Read on to learn more about the causes, symptoms, and solutions for teeth grinding guard.

What Is Teeth Grinding?

To understand the causes and symptoms of teeth grinding, you first need to know it. Teeth grinding is known as bruxism when you clench or grind your teeth together, which is a very common thing to do. However, it’s essential to know that teeth grinding is not the same as teeth clenching. Clenching your teeth together is normal, and it happens to everyone. When this becomes excessive and occurs often, it becomes a problem. Teeth grinding can occur during sleep, while chewing, or even while having a conversation. People with bruxism grind their teeth when stressed, angry, or anxious.

Causes of Teeth Grinding

There are a number of reasons why someone might grind their teeth. Each one requires a different solution, so it’s essential to identify what’s causing your grinding so you can find relief. Anxiety can cause teeth grinding, especially if you’re unaware that you’re doing it. Stress and anxiety are natural responses to life’s problems, but they can become damaged if you don’t know how to control them. If you don’t know how to deal with your anxiety, it can lead you to grind your teeth or clench your jaw. Just as anxiety can cause teeth grinding, stress is a major cause of bruxism. This grinding results from clenching your teeth together as a way to relieve your stress and anxiety.

Symptoms of Teeth Grinding

The only way to know that you’re grinding your teeth is by seeing a dentist. A dentist can identify signs of teeth grinding by examining your teeth and gums. If they notice signs of grinding, they’ll likely suggest that you see a doctor who specializes in TMJ disorders. Your gums can start to bleed when you grind your teeth, and it causes your gums to become inflamed. This can cause your gums to bleed, which is easy to miss. You might notice that you have red or swollen gums, but not always. Sores in Your Mouth, Bruxism can also cause sores in your mouth, painful and disfiguring. Sores in the upper part of your mouth are easy to miss, but sores in your cheeks, lower lips, and tongue are noticeable.

Teeth Grinding Guard

If you’re grinding your teeth, you’re likely experiencing pain and damage. You can’t stop grinding your teeth, but you can reduce the damage you’re doing with teeth grinding guards. There are two types of grinding guards:
  • Mouthguard - A mouthguard is a soft, flexible mouthpiece worn while you sleep. It’s similar to a sports mouthguard, but it’s a different material.
  • A custom-fitted mouthguard fits over your teeth instead of a sports guard, which goes around your teeth. A dental mouthguard can be worn during the day, but it should never be worn while sleeping. It’s not made to withstand the pressure and stress of your teeth grinding.

Conclusion

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is when a person grinds their teeth frequently and unintentionally. This normally occurs during sleep, but it can also happen while awake. There are multiple reasons why someone might grind their teeth, and the more you know about them, the better you can manage your condition. The grinding of teeth is not a disease; it’s a sign that something else is wrong with your body.