Y: I think I might have a case of bruxism.

D: Bruxism. Is that some kind of disease?

Y: It is the gnashing, grinding, and clenching of the teeth. It's a common problem, but a      lot of people don't know they do it because they do it in their sleep.

D: I've heard about teeth grinding. What makes you think you do it, though?

Y: I've been waking up here and there with headaches, and sometimes my teeth seem to      be sore. The other day my jaw hurt as well.

D: Sounds more like you're a hypochondriac.

Y: Hey.

D: I'm just kidding. Seriously, you should check that out with your dentist. If you are      grinding your teeth you could be wearing the enamel down, as well as causing      damage to your jaw. When we're asleep we're capable of grinding our teeth six times      as hard as we might in the day. That kind of pressure can do a lot of damage.

Y: I don't even want to think about it. The idea of such pressure makes me cringe. What      can the dentist do for me, though?

D: For one, the dentist might fit your teeth for a plastic mouth guard that will protect      your teeth when you grind. Other options range from relaxation exercises to      reconstruction of the surfaces of your teeth.

Y: Relaxation exercises? Does that mean stress causes bruxism?

D: It's one theory, but doctors also believe that sleep disorders, an abnormal bite, and      crooked or missing teeth might cause bruxism too.  

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