Bruxism is the act of clenching, grinding and gnashing of the teeth. Bruxism may result in sore teeth, a sore jaw, headaches, ear aches, jaw joint disorders and damaged teeth. It is usually prevented with an oral appliance that protects the teeth (usually worn at night while sleeping).
Bruxism can be treated with special jaw exercises, behavioral therapy or talk therapy to address psychological issues that may lie behind the clenching. Sometimes Bruxism is a side effect of certain psychiatric medications or diseases. It can also simply be caused by misalignment of the teeth in the top and bottom Arches.
Synonyms:
clenching teeth, grinding teeth