Do you grind your teeth? If so you need to read this excellent article on the BBC website on bruxism (teeth grinding/clenching to the layman). Teeth grinding and clenching mainly seems to happen at night but can also be a problem during the day.
If you are stressed you are more likely to start grinding your teeth, however not everyone agrees with this. Telltale signs of bruxism are worn away tooth enamel, worn down teeth, fractured teeth, sensitivity if the tooth dentin is exposed,jaw pain, facial pain and headaches. Anger and frustration can also cause you to grind and clench your teeth.
What can you do about bruxism:
- De-stress yourself – change your life, change your job, change your expectations, have a holiday, take the dog out for long walks (you might have to buy one first!)
- Learn to relax – take up yoga, have some cranial osteopathy, have a warm bath before going to bed
- See your dentist – wear a plastic guard over your teeth at night to absorb the grinding forces
