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Teeth Grinding ("Bruxing")

Grinding and/or clenching your teeth and the resulting trauma can lead to a series of dental problems. In many cases, teeth grinding (“bruxing”) occurs during sleep. Clenching can occur at any time of day especially when feeling tense or experiencing high stress.

If you suffer from bruxism you are not alone. Approximately one third of adults suffer from bruxism. Dr. Hopgoods can usually find solutins for an easy and speedy recovery.

Teeth grinding over time can lead to serious, expensive dental problems. Bruxers experience jaw pain, tense muscles, headaches, earaches, neck aches, as well as excessive wear on their teeth (including fractures and chipped teeth). Forceful biting when not eating may also cause the jaw to move out of equilibrium (proper balance).

Symptoms of Grinding (Bruxing)

Some patients notice the following symptoms associated with bruxing:

Tips of the teeth appear flat. Teeth are worn down; the enamel is rubbed off, exposing the inside of the tooth.
Pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or jaw, leading to popping and/or clicking.

There are many factors, which trigger teeth clenching and/or grinding, however for most patients, anger, pain, anxiety, frustration and stress are common stimuli.

If Dr. Hopgood notices signs of bruxism damage, he will discuss treatment options with you including but not limited to, behavior modification and an appliance called a night or occlusal guard. A night guard is an appliance custom made and worn at bedtime to absorb the force of biting, clenching, and grinding. This appliance (when worn properly) prevents future damage to the teeth.

Advanced Dental Concepts
Richard D. Hopgood D.M.D., M.A.G.D.
296 Lowell Street
Andover, MA 01810
Telephone: 978-475-2431
Email: info@andoverdmd.com