Most people are completely unaware that they grind their teeth at night because they often do it while they sleep if their spouse has to wear earplugs at night because of the grinding noise.

Don’t be surprised if your dentist says you should wear a night guard.

Bruxism is the medical term for the forceful clenching and grinding your teeth. It is considered a significant cause of tooth problems. Some patients will say they notice signs of wear, but it is not just a cosmetic problem. It also causes strain on the jaw joints.

If allowed to persist, grinding causes temperature sensitivity and pain because the wear gets down to the nerve, causing cracks in the teeth, receding gums and eventually lost teeth. Grinding can also cause migraine headaches and pain in the shoulders, neck, back and ears.

An occlusal splint may be the only viable treatment option for chronic grinders. Several splints and mouth guards are available, including soft bite-raising appliances, nightguards.