According to the American Academy of General Dentistry, as many as one in three people suffer from bruxism - the condition used to describe unconscious grinding and clenching, usually when asleep.  Many people don't even know that they grind their teeth.  However they are painfully aware of unexplained headaches, chronic facial pain, and increased sensitivity in their teeth or constantly waking up with a sore jaw.

People who share their sleeping space may find out from their partner that they grind their teeth, however most patients only find out during a dental visit.

Why do some people grind their teeth to intensely while they sleep?  The most common factor in today's lifestyle is stress, including anxiety, anger and frustration.  Bruxism has also been reported as a side effect of certain antidepressants.

Depending on how much damage has already been done, we may recommend overlays as crowns to correct any tooth surfaces that have been worn away.

Having regular dental exams is the best way to screen against bruxism, especially if you don't have a sleep partner who can report your nocturnal gnashing to you.