Grinding your teeth may lead to other problems Published June 4, 2012 GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Bruxism is the technical term for grinding and clenching of the teeth that may cause facial pain, according to dental officials. People who grind and clench their teeth, called bruxers, unintentionally bite down too hard at inappropriate times, such as in their sleep. In addition to grinding teeth, bruxers also may bite their fingernails, pencils and chew the inside of their cheek. People usually aren't diagnosed with bruxism until it is too late, as many people don't realize they have the habit, according to the Academy of General Dentistry. Others mistakenly believe that their teeth must touch at all times. About one in three people suffer from bruxism, which can easily be treated by a dentist. Signs and Symptoms Signs and symptoms of bruxism may include: Teeth grinding or clenching, which may be loud enough to awaken your sleep partner Teeth that are worn down, flattened, fractured or chipped Worn tooth enamel, exposing deeper layers of your tooth Increased tooth sensitivity Jaw pain or tightness in your jaw muscles Enlarged jaw muscles Earache--because of severe jaw muscle contractions, not a problem with your ear Headache Chronic facial pain Chewed tissue on the inside of your cheek Indentations on your tongue Causes Possible physical or psychological causes may include: Anxiety, stress or tension Suppressed anger or frustration Aggressive, competitive or hyperactive personality type Abnormal alignment of upper and lower teeth (malocclusion) Changes that occur during sleep cycles Complication resulting from a disorder, such as Huntington's disease or Parkinson's disease An uncommon side effect of some psychiatric medications, including certain antidepressants. Response to pain from an earache or teething Complications In most cases, bruxism doesn't cause serious complications. But severe bruxism may lead to: Damage to your teeth (including restorations and crowns) or jawTension-type headaches Facial pain Pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), located just in front of your ears and felt when opening and closing your mouth When to see your dentist See your doctor or dentist if: Your teeth are worn, damaged or sensitive You have pain in your jaw, face or ear Others complain that you make a grinding noise while you sleep Treatments Stress Management--professional counseling or strategies that promote relaxation, such as exercise and meditation Splints--usually constructed of hard acrylic and fit over your upper or lower teeth Mouth guards--available over the counter and from your dentist Correcting misaligned teeth--In severe cases--when tooth wear has led to sensitivity or the inability to chew properly--your dentist may need to use overlays or crowns to entirely reshape the chewing surfaces of your teeth. Reconstructive treatment can be quite extensive and though it will correct the wear, it may not stop the bruxism. If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms of bruxism, please call the Grand Forks Air Force Base Dental Clinic at DSN 362-5393 or 701-747-5393 to schedule an appointment. USAF. (U.S. Air Force Graphic by Rosario "Charo" Gutierrez) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res USAF. (U.S. Air Force Graphic by Rosario "Charo" Gutierrez)