Expert: Benjamin Schwartz, DDS FAGD - 11/6/2008

Question
Hi,
During a period of stress over the past 2 years, I have noticed that I often clench my teeth while asleep - I can tell that I've been doing this because I wake up with a headache, jaw ache, and sore teeth / gums. I even have blood on my teeth sometimes.

When I went to the dentist last week, she said my gums were receding - which I had noticed - and looked puffy. She said I should floss - which I do - and not scrub my teeth so hard - which I don't think I particularly do.

I asked if it might have more to do with the fact that I clench my teeth, and she said no, clenching only affects the surface of your teeth. Is she right? And if not, how do I stop my gums from receding further?

Thanks!

Answer
Hi Alex,

When you clench and grind your teeth, the teeth move around. The teeth are held in ligaments, and when they are grind against, they push around and move slightly. This movement, can cause the thin layer of enamel, all the way down by your gums to fall off. In addition, this can lead to some bone loss in the area, causing the gums to recede.

The end result of all this, is gum loss, with severely sensitive teeth.

However, the puffy gums usually are a sign of gingivitis.

Here's what I would recommend;
- Definitely wear a nightguard! It's very important to stop the process from causing more damage to your oral cavity.
- Use a mouthwash that will help alleviate the gum issues
- Use a soft-headed toothbrush.

I hope this helps!
Please let me know if you have more questions.