Bruxism (Teeth Grinding).

Dentists are reporting that we are grinding our teeth more, as stress and even fears over the recession grip us and saw a 20% rise in cases in 2008 and 2009.

They call it 'Bruxism'. To the layman it is "teeth grinding", although for some it may only be clenching rather than grinding.

A lot of it happens at night, but there can be clenching during the day. Some people may suffer headaches as a result, or shooting pains in their jaw. But many may not realise they are doing it until the dentist spots it. It is not a pleasant thing to be woken by. Some have described it as "like a concrete mixer running down a blackboard." and often, irate sleeping partners are the first to notice.

Some Symptoms:

• Abnormal wear on teeth
• Fractures in healthy teeth
• Headaches
• Pain in jaw

Dentists believe that stress and anxiety are factors, as over the past couple of years things have changed considerably in the workplace. People are working longer hours, concerned about job security and debt and becoming more stressed as a result. Dentists are reporting a 30% increase in grinding-related problems since the start of the recession*.

Removing the anxiety and stress response can really help to see an end to the problem. Why not contact me today to arrange an appointment?

*Source BBC News Online 04.03.10.