What does it mean if you grind your teeth? As you sleep, you may grind, gnash, or clench your teeth, and this forceful contact can cause damage. Teeth grinding, which is also known as bruxism, affects many adults as well as a smaller percentage of children.
If the grinding of your teeth in your sleep is becoming uncomfortable, or is very frequent, then you should visit your dentist to assess any damage that has been caused. They will also be able to give you a mouth guard to wear before you go to bed that will protect your teeth and jaw from any further problems.
The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Teeth Grinding This content was created by the National Sleep Foundation Waking up with tired, tight jaw muscles or sensitive teeth could be a sign that you grind or clench your teeth during the night, a condition known as bruxism.
People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are three times more likely to clench and grind their teeth throughout the night. At intervals throughout the night, the airways partially constrict, which can cause them to stop breathing for a number of seconds.
If your grinding habit does mean that you have bruxism, then we can help you address it and protect your smile with an appropriate, customized treatment plan. The sooner you address your teeth-grinding, the less of an impact it will be able to have on your oral health. It means your teeth-grinding isn’t occasional. The fact that you grind.
Teeth Grinding. Teeth grinding also known as bruxism, is the clenching together of the bottom and upper jaw accompanied by the grinding of the lower set of teeth with the upper set. Teeth grinding affects between 10-50% of the population depending on the particular study sited. Teeth grinding is a unconscious behavior so many people do not realize that they are doing it.
If you are still having sleep problems, try talking to a sleep specialist who may help you treat your sleep issues. If you are aware that you grind your teeth during your sleep, try to hold a warm washcloth against your cheek in front of your earlobe before you go to bed: this will help relax your jaw muscles.
Has your spouse ever mentioned to you that you grind your teeth every night? Do you find yourself clenching your jaw when concentrating deeply on something? Have you noticed your teeth starting to appear “shorter” over the years? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should know that this behavior can be damaging to your teeth.