Thirty to 40 million people grind their teeth. This condition that affects so many children and adults is called bruxism.

Many of the affected only grind their teeth during the night; this is referred to as "sleep-related bruxism" or "nocturnal bruxism." Many people grind their teeth during the daytime as well. This most often occurs when a person is feeling stressed or very tense. People who suffer from severe bruxism can cause dental fillings to fracture and/ or come out, or other types of tooth damage. Severe bruxism can cause temporomandibular disorders (TMJ), facial pain, and headaches.

In addition to bruxism being caused by something psychological, it is also caused by having a poor "bite" (the way the teeth come together). The teeth grinding can also be a side effect of many antidepressant medications. Those who drink alcohol or caffeine may also regularly experience bruxism. Both chemicals seem to increase teeth grinding.

Some of the symptoms one might experience may include a dull morning headache, chronic facial pain, tight jaw muscles, contractions of the jaw muscles, injured gums, damaged teeth, and damaged dental fillings.

Consult your dentist to check for any obvious abnormalities such as missing teeth, broken teeth, or poor tooth alignment. Your dentist will also check for tenderness in the jaw. X-rays are usually taken in addition to checking your "bite." Your dentist may treat the bruxism in a number of different ways. If the bruxism is caused by a dental problem, rather than stress; it should stop when the teeth are realigned or repaired by your dentist. This may take just a few visits. In teenagers and adults, the outlook is excellent when treated properly.

Dr. Sharon Robinson, DDS may be reached at 954-792-1857. The Dental Place is located at 6738 W Sunrise Blvd, #105, Plantation, Fl. 33313. You may also visit her website at www.dentalplace4u.com