What You Have to Know About Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding is a fairly normal thing to do. Too much of it, however, is damaging and it could escalate into the condition called bruxism, from a Greek word that means “gnashing of teeth”. If you brux, here are some valuable facts worth knowing.

Bruxism is all ages

Bruxism in children comes with teeth development. The condition gradually ceases as they grow but some bring it with them to adulthood. Those who’ve stopped bruxing may also redevelop the condition due to various factors aside from teeth development.

It causes ugly teeth

Under normal stress, the enamel erodes at a rate of 0.3 mm every ten years. Bruxers, upon reaching mid-twenties, have enamels eroded to an average of 2 mm. You recognize chronic bruxers with their broken or chipped teeth that are abnormally flat on top and seem to resemble overly-bitten fingernails.

It has other unseen effects

Bruxism can cause locking of the lower jaw, leading to head and ear aches. It exposes the dentin, making teeth more sensitive to heat and cold. The micro-cracks and broken fillings contribute to nerve damage. The gums recede due to pressure, leading to more oral health problems.