What are the signs of bruxism?
When a person bruxes, opposing teeth grind against each other. The tips of these teeth may flatten and wear down. This wear may involve individual specific teeth or all of the teeth. As the wear continues the inner core of the tooth (dentine) may become exposed. When exposed, dentin may cause the tooth to become sensitive. Bruxers may also experience pain in their temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which may manifest as popping and clicking of the jaw. Tongue indentations and cheek ridges are other signs of a clenching/grinding habit.