Grinding of Teeth
Alternate Names : Bruxism
Grinding or clenching of the teeth usually occurs when a person is asleep.
Sometimes, it can also take place while a person is awake. The grinding noise
can be quite noticeable to others who are nearby.
What is going on in the body?
Clenching or grinding the teeth is a mechanism for release of emotional
stress. When a person is
awake, the action often occurs during anger, intense concentration, or physical
exertion. The teeth grinding is unintentional and occurs at inappropriate
times. The person is generally unaware of the teeth grinding.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
Emotional
stress and certain personality types are associated with teeth
grinding. People with anger, pain, or frustration may start grinding their
teeth. Aggressive, hurried, or overly competitive people may also experience
teeth grinding. The grinding can also be caused by an abnormal alignment of the
teeth or jaw. It is sometimes connected to drug and alcohol use. Teeth grinding
is common in children when their teeth are coming in.
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