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Tooth Grinding / Bruxism Directory
Occasional teeth grinding is usually harmless, but frequent bruxism (tooth grinding) can cause damage to the teeth and jaw pain. Many people are unaware that they grind their teeth, and often a sleep partner is the first to notice. Your dentist can also tell you if you have a teeth-grinding problem. If untreated, bruxism can cause tooth fractures or tooth loss and may also cause your teeth to wear down all the way. This can create a need for expensive dental work to repair the damage. A mouth guard can help protect your teeth at night, but if stress is causing the teeth grinding, you can look into ways to reduce or help manage the stress in your life. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how teeth grinding affects your mouth, what it looks like, how to treat it, and much more.
Medical Reference
Parasomnias
WebMD explains disruptive sleep disorders -- called parasomnias -- that range from night terrors to sleep paralysis to bedwetting.
Who Uses Mouth Guards and Why?
Using mouth guards during sports or athletic activity can help prevent dental damage. They can also be worn at night to prevent teeth grinding.
An Overview of Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Do you or a loved one grind teeth at night? Find out what can be done for teeth grinding (bruxism), as well as causes and consequences.
Do You Grind Your Teeth During Sleep?
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can damage tooth enamel and dental work. Learn more from WebMD about this common sleep disorder.
Features
Tooth Loss: Are You at Risk from Diabetes, Poor Dental Care, or Other Reasons?
WebMD talks to experts about how to prevent tooth loss and keep your teeth for a lifetime.
What Wears Down Your Teeth
With good care, teeth can last a lifetime. But chewing, brushing, and grinding can wear them down. Here's how to protect your teeth.