Clenching and Grinding, also know as Bruxism, is on the rise as the economy causes more stress. People who grind and clench their teeth, called bruxers, unintentionally bite down too hard, especially when they sleep. Recent research by the Chicago Dental Society has shown an increase of almost 25% of dentists surveyed seeing an increase in Bruxism. Most dentists feel this is a direct correlation to the economy and the high stress level that people are under right now. Anger, pain and stress can cause people to start showing the beginning signs of bruxism without them even knowing it. People who are aggressive, competitive and hurried also may be at greater risk for bruxism. Common signs of bruxism are flat front teeth, teeth that are worn down so much that the enamel is rubbed off, exposing the inside of the tooth, which is called dentin. When this dentin becomes exposed it can cause the tooth to become sensitive. Bruxers may also experience pain in their jaw, which may manifest as popping and clicking in the jaw. Tongue indentations are another signs of clenching. So how can you prevent this? Most dentists, to include myself, recommend a night guard. We fabricate this night guard to help protect your teeth at night, when people grind the most. This guard absorbs the force of the biting and keeps the teeth from actually touching, thus not allowing clenching and grinding to happen. Many of our patients who did not think the E-appliance would actually produce a measurable difference come back into the office and tell us that they now can’t live without their appliance. We would love to talk to you further about how an E-appliance may help you!