People often grind their teeth in their sleep. You may not even know you're doing it. The causes are not clear. Stress is one possible cause, but often the reason for the habit is not known.

The symptoms of grinding.

Your dentist may ask whether you have certain symptoms such as:

• A sore, tired jaw.
• Dull headaches.
• Earaches.
• Sensitive teeth.

Symptoms like these may be signal that you grind your teeth.

Treatment.

Mouth guards: A mouth guard is a plastic device that fits over your teeth. It protects them from grinding damage. A mouth guard is worn at the times when you're most likely to grind you teeth.

Stress Reduction: Stress is suspected in many cases of bruxism. Reducing stress may help relax your jaw muscles and make grinding less likely. Your dentist may suggest regular exercise or other ways to reduce stress.

Medication: In some cases medication may be given. It may help relieve sore muscles or reduce stress.

Fixing damaged teeth: Your dentist can discuss ways to fix teeth damaged by bruxism. Crowns and onlays are two ways to fix damaged teeth.