About half of all adults grind their teeth and 20 percent of these people grind in a chronic, destructive way that requires treatment.

What are the signs of bruxism?

Since most people don't know that they grind their teeth during sleep, they first learn of their condition during a visit to the dentist. If they have a sleeping partner, he or she may alert them to the fact they are grinding. Several signs indicate that you may have the condition. These include sore, tender jaws that become less uncomfortable as the day progresses, morning headaches, earaches and neck pain. You may notice that your teeth have become more sensitive over time, or that your teeth look flat or worn. Other physical indications of chronic teeth grinding include chipped teeth, increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages, and loose or broken fillings.

If you notice any of these signs, you should check with your dentist or dental hygienist. He or she will be able to assess the condition and give you a definitive answer.

What are the causes?

Stress and anxiety are the most likely causes of teeth grinding. Grinding may also be a response to pain elsewhere in the body, or the result of misaligned teeth. Alcohol and stimulants such as caffeine can aggravate the condition, causing more severe grinding or clenching.

Recently, the use of certain antidepressants called SSRIs have been linked to bruxism. (SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft), fluvoxamine (Luvox), and citalopram (Celexa). If you are taking one of these medications, and experiencing any of the symptoms of bruxism, you may want to schedule a visit to your dentist.

There may also be a genetic factor in the development of bruxism - if one or both of your parents grind their teeth, you are more likely to do it too.

Wearing a tooth protector

If bruxism becomes serious enough to cause pain and/or physical damage to the teeth, your dentist may suggest you wear a 'bite plate' at night. This soft, removable tray made of a clear, tasteless polymer (plastic) material is custom fit to either your upper or lower teeth. The bite plate places the jaw in a balanced, natural position which will prevent you from clenching or grinding your teeth. It is easy to insert, comfortable and will not disturb your rest.

Alternative, you may choose to invest in a self-fitting dental protector such as the Doctor's Night Guard, available from London Drugs.

Other ways to relieve bruxism

The following actions may help to relieve bruxism:

• Utilizing relaxation techniques such as head and neck massage.
• Minimizing or eliminating your use of alcohol, caffeine, and other stimulants
• Asking your dentist how to properly rest your tongue, teeth and lips in their natural position before sleep

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