Experiencing Teeth Grinding During Sleep: Causes, Prevention, and Effective Solutions

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a common issue affecting millions of people worldwide. This condition can result in jaw pain, headaches, and the wear down of teeth. Understand the causes, learn about effective prevention methods, and explore the latest solutions that can help manage bruxism.

Understanding Bruxism: Causes and Prevalence

Teeth grinding during sleep, also known as bruxism, is a condition that can be caused by a variety of factors including stress, anxiety, misaligned teeth, and sleep disorders. My younger sister was a regular teeth grinder while sleeping at night, and it used to drive me up the wall as she shared a room with me. This experience highlighted the importance of addressing this condition timely.

Effective Prevention Methods

Preventing bruxism involves a combination of strategies, including using a night guard, practicing stress management, and addressing any underlying dental or medical conditions. Consulting with your dentist can help you determine the best approach to managing your bruxism.

Wear a Night Guard

Your dentist can custom fit you for a night guard which is an appliance made from plastic or acrylic that fits over your top teeth. Though it won’t stop you from grinding, it protects your teeth from further damage. Custom-made night guards are effective in providing a barrier between your teeth, reducing the impact of grinding.

Types of Night Guards: There are various intra-oral appliances that control tooth grinding or at least help to prevent the damage it causes. Your dentist can provide one in most cases, but a full examination is necessary to determine the best type for you. My personal favorite is the NTI-tss (also known as the Sleep Clench Inhibitor SCi), which is highly effective and minimizes the risk of grinding.

Practicing Stress Management

Stress is a common cause of bruxism. Engaging in physical activities such as exercise can help alleviate stress, making it a crucial component in the prevention and management of bruxism. Whether you opt for a major sweat session or just a stroll, regular exercise can significantly reduce the intensity of grinding. Additionally, taking a warm bath before bed or applying a warm washcloth to your jaw can help relax your jaw muscles and promote a better sleep.

Intra-Oral Appliances and New Innovations

There are various intra-oral appliances that can control tooth grinding or at least help prevent the damage it causes. Your dentist can provide something appropriate in most cases, but a full examination is necessary to determine the best option for you.

Cerezen In-Ear Devices

For those who cannot tolerate appliances worn in the mouth, a new hope in the form of Cerezen in-ear devices is available in the UK and Ireland. These devices have shown success in over 85-90% of cases and have been used in more than 4500 cases so far. Cerezen has the significant advantage of being wearable during the day and night, and it does not interfere with speaking, eating, or other daily activities.

The Cerezen device is especially promising as it can be worn continuously, providing constant relief from grinding. Although originally launched in the USA, the availability of Cerezen in the UK and Ireland has been limited due to resistance from the pharmaceutical industry and some skeptics among dentists. However, I am currently involved in clinical research that aims to convince those who are hesitant about this innovative solution.

Personally, I would strongly recommend considering Cerezen as a viable option for my patients, as it offers a practical and effective solution for those struggling with bruxism.