Hi there! Dr. Smith is my name, and I'm a dentist specializing in <span style="color:red">temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD)</span>. Many people know these better as "TMJ" problems. <span style="color:red">Bruxism,</span> or teeth grinding and clenching, is a very common issue I see in my practice, so I'm happy to answer your question about it.

<br>

You're right to wonder how common bruxism is. It's more prevalent than you might think. Studies estimate that approximately 8-31% of the population experiences bruxism at some point in their lives. That's a pretty wide range, and it reflects the fact that there are different types of bruxism and not everyone seeks help for it.

<br>

For example, sleep bruxism happens unconsciously during sleep, while awake bruxism occurs when people are aware of clenching or grinding their teeth, often in response to stress or anxiety. Sleep bruxism can be harder to identify because you are literally asleep when it happens! It's often a sleeping partner or dentist who notices the telltale signs like teeth grinding sounds or jaw muscle soreness.

<br>

Now, about those numbers I mentioned earlier. The prevalence of bruxism varies depending on a few factors:

* Age: Bruxism is more common in children than adults. In fact, it's estimated that 2-3 out of 10 kids grind their teeth, often growing out of it by adolescence.
* Stress levels: As I mentioned, stress is a big trigger for bruxism. People under a lot of pressure, whether from work, relationships, or life in general, are more likely to clench and grind.
* Lifestyle habits: Smoking, caffeine, alcohol consumption, and certain medications can all contribute to bruxism.
* Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as Parkinson's disease, dementia, and sleep disorders like sleep apnea, can also increase the risk of bruxism.

<br>

The good news is that while bruxism is common, it's manageable. If you suspect you might be grinding or clenching your teeth, don't hesitate to talk to your dentist. They can evaluate your situation, check for signs of wear and tear, and recommend appropriate treatment options like a <span style="color:red">custom-made nightguard</span> or stress management techniques.

<br>

Remember, addressing bruxism early on can help protect your teeth and jaw from long-term damage. Feel free to ask if you have any other questions!

read more >>

Teeth Grinding. ... A type of movement disorder that occurs during sleep, bruxism is a common condition - one survey estimates that 8% of adults grind their teeth at night and a study shows that more than a third of parents report symptoms of bruxism in their children.read more >>