Bruxism (Tooth Grinding) 磨牙症

Bruxism is excessive clenching or grinding of the teeth that is not part of normal chewing movements. It can lead to excessive wear on teeth hence cause permanent damage to the teeth and jaw joints. Clenching and grinding may occur during the day or at night while asleep where there is no conscious control over these excessive forces.

Possible causes of Bruxism/Clenching

• Physical stress
• Psychological stress
• Sleep disorder
• Abnormal anatomy of teeth/ jaws that causes an improper bite

Signs & Symptoms of Bruxism/Clenching

• Pain in teeth and sensitivity to heat/cold
• Chronic facial pain
• Flattened teeth
• Microfractures on tooth
• Chipped tooth
• Loose teeth

Treatment of Bruxism/ Clenching

• Remove causes of bruxism
• Change of behaviour that causes bruxism (eg. Stress, Nightguard, Painkillers/ Muscle relaxants)
• Repair the damage that bruxism often causes