What can be done to prevent or stop teeth grinding during sleep

asks meandyou:
A. Grating, grinding or clenching your teeth is called bruxism. Millions of adults and children do it. Most aren't even aware that they do it because it happens at night while they sleep. Although it can happen during the day, too.

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Q. What causes it
A. It can be a sign of an incorrect bite. If there isn't a physical cause, most experts believe that it is a response to increasing stress. Some sleep disorders also have teeth grinding as one of their symptoms. And it can get worse when you drink alcohol or take drugs such as anti-depressants.

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Q. Who is most likely to grind their teeth
A. Children are more likely to suffer from bruxism if their parents do. And research suggests that people with compulsive, controlling or aggressive personalities are more to have it.

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Q. Is it dangerous
A. It's not life-threatening, but it can be anything from irritating to extremely painful and damaging to your teeth, depending how severe it is. It can also drive your sleeping partner mad!

Bruxism causes:

• Wearing down of teeth, and may fracture fillings and teeth.
• Pain in the jaw or face.
• Headaches and migraines.
• Loose teeth.
• Gum damage.
• Tooth sensitivity.

Q. How is it treated
A. Misaligned teeth can be treated in a number of ways, depending on the individual problem. Your dentist will discuss possible treatments with you.

Stress-related teeth grinding will also require attention from a dentist to repair any damage, but it can be treated with behaviour modification, such as stress management therapy. Hypnosis has also been successful for some people. And there are devices such as mouthguards which are worn to protect the teeth.

A new and tiny device, called the Tension Suppression System (TSS) has been used with success in the US and has now been approved by the Dept of Health. It covers the front two upper teeth to prevent the top and bottom rows of teeth contacting. It's not available on the NHS and costs around �150.

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Q. What should I do first
A. Visit your dentist, who will be able to tell you how severe the problem is, as well as repair any damage, and suggest treatments.

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For more information, visit the British Dental Health Foundation website.

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By Sheena Miller