Grinding
Griding is a parafunctional habit and is when an individual, whether intentional or unintentional, slides their teeth against each other. Subjecting the teeth to this repeated force causes them to thin and fracture. It can also lead to discomfort in the area of the TMJs.
Individuals are sometimes incorrectly diagnosed as grinding because of wear on their anterior teeth. We will take the correct steps to determine if you are indeed grinding.
Clenching
Clenching is a parafuncitonal habit that is very different from griding. It involves activation and contraction of the chewing muscles and subject the teeth to sustained biting forces. These forces can cause discomfort in the teeth, surrounding musculature or in the area of the TMJs. Headaches and tooth fracture are also associated with clenching.
