Tooth grinding is also know as Bruxism. People grind their teeth for different reason and many people don’t even realise they are doing it. Sometimes it is the unconscious result of upper and lower teeth not fitting comfortably together and trying to wear them down until they fit. If this is the case, it can be easily identified and the dentist can professionally grind down the teeth which are causing the discomfort.

Another common cause of teeth grinding is stress. To help with this and to break the grinding habit, the dentist can make a night-guard. This is a plastic appliance worn at night that helps the teeth apart allowing your muscles to relax into a normal position.

If teeth grinding has been excessive and a tooth’s enamel has been damaged it may be necessary to crown the tooth to better protect it.