Toothchewing

Toothchewing, also known as bruxism, is the act of grinding or clenching the teeth. This habit can occur while awake or asleep, although sleep bruxism is generally more forceful and less consciously controlled. The exact causes of toothchewing are not fully understood, but it is often linked to factors such as stress, anxiety, certain sleep disorders like sleep apnea, and the alignment of teeth (malocclusion). In some instances, it may also be a side effect of certain medications.

Symptoms of toothchewing can include jaw pain, headaches, earaches, and damage to the teeth such as worn enamel, chipped teeth, or increased tooth sensitivity. In severe cases, it can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Diagnosis is typically made based on reported symptoms and a physical examination of the teeth and jaw.

Treatment for toothchewing aims to reduce the frequency and intensity of the grinding or clenching. For awake bruxism, behavioral modifications and stress management techniques are often recommended. For sleep bruxism, a dentist may recommend a custom-fitted mouthguard or occlusal splint to protect the teeth from damage during sleep. In some cases, addressing underlying sleep disorders or seeking psychological support for anxiety and stress may be beneficial.