Teeth grinding

Description

Creaking, grinding or clenching the teeth. It affects children and adults. Continuing grinding can result in damage of the gums, teeth and their supporting bones.

Symptoms

Jaw pain, headaches, muscle contractions on the side of the face, noise produced by grinding during the night, damaged teeth and bones, withdrawal of gums.

Overview

Anamnesis and physical examination will be performed. The examination can exclude other disorders which can cause similar symptoms. Dental exam usually sets diagnosis and based on the perceived damages and tooth wear.

Specialists

Dentist, ETN, General Practice and Internal Medicine

Therapy

Objectives of the therapy are to relieve the pain, prevent permanent teeth damage and reduce teeth clenching as much as it is possible. Changes of behavior and stress control can be successful in decreasing the appearance of grinding. Tooth guard and dental splints are used for preventing further damages to teeth and jaw. Symptomatic treatment can be achieved with ibuprofen/Brufen, naproxen/Naprosyn or Nalgesin or acetaminophen/Paracetamol.