Bring Bruxism to a Grinding Halt
  Winter 2008

PhotoAccording to the American Academy of General Dentistry, as many as one in three people suffer from bruxism - the condition used to describe unconscious grinding and clenching, usually when asleep. Many people don't even know that they grind their teeth, although they are painfully aware of otherwise unexplained headaches, chronic facial pain, increased sensitivity in their teeth or constantly waking up with a sore jaw. In some cases patients even experience earaches because of severe muscle contractions.

People who share their sleeping space may find out from their sleep partner that they grind their teeth, however most patients only find out during a dental visit, when the dental team notices loose teeth or unusual wear and tear - teeth that are worn down, flattened or chipped. Bruxing can also lead to the breakdown of dental restorations, loss of crowns and tooth fractures.

Why do some people grind their teeth so intensely while they sleep? The most common factor in today's "go, go, go" lifestyle is stress, including anxiety, anger and frustration. Bruxism has also been reported as a side effect of certain antidepressants, and some drugs like ecstasy and cocaine, while stimulants such as alcohol and caffeine are considered aggravating factors too. Patients with an abnormal alignment of upper and lower teeth may also be prone to grinding and clenching their teeth.

Depending on how much damage has already been done, we may recommend overlays or crowns to correct any tooth surfaces that have been worn away. At the very least, we will discuss custom-made mouthguards and protective dental appliances with you. While over-the-counter mouthguards exist, be aware that they generally don't fit well, and can even dislodge during bruxing.

Having regular dental exams, allowing a dentist to spot early signs of grinding in your mouth and jaw, is the best way to screen against bruxism, especially if you don't have a sleep partner who can report your nocturnal gnashing to you.

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Office Hours

Mon.: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Tues.: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Wed.: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Thurs.: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Our Location

121 Congressional Lane
Suite 501
Rockville, MD 20852
Conveniently Located
Near the Twinbrook
Metro Station


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