Bruxism is also known as teeth grinding and can involve gnashing or clenching of the teeth.  Unconsciously clenching your teeth on one another or grinding them at night is one of the many symptoms of bruxism.

Bruxism that occurs nocturnally is considered a part of a the sleep disorder category in which people clench and can even grind their teeth at night. A high percentage of people who clench their teeth in this manner have other sleep disorders that may include snoring or sleep apnea.

If a patient has a mild case of bruxism, no treatment is necessarily required.  Some people, however, will have a severe enough case of bruxism where they will suffer from damaged teeth, jaw problems, headaches and more.

If you think you may have bruxism, you may not be aware of how serious the problem is until you begin to develop complications or have already caused damage to your teeth without noticing it right away.

Being aware of the signs and symptoms of bruxism is important in order to recruit the proper dental care.

Signs and Symptoms of Bruxism:

• Tooth enamel that is worn and exposing deep layer of your tooth
• Grinding or clenching that you or your partner may awake from it
• Flat, cracked, chipped or loose teeth
• Tooth sensitivity
• Tight or fatigued muscles
• Face Pain or Soreness
• Jaw Pain
• Referred pain in the ear
• Temple headaches
• Tongue indentations
• Internal cheek damage

If you suspect that you are suffering from bruxism, please speak with our teeth specialist at our Vancouver dental clinic. Be sure to also mention any signs or symptoms of bruxism that you may see in your child.