Bruxism is a habit of grinding or clenching the teeth, There are some symptoms that are characteristic of bruxism. People who suffer from bruxism may or may not experience the following. HEADACHE SORE JAW CLENCHING OR GRINDING TEETH FACIAL PAIN WORN OR FRACTURED TOOTH ENAMEL LOOSE TEETH EARACHE INSOMNIA Bruxism can develop at any age, and children as well as adults can have a habit of grinding their teeth. There are many causes of bruxism or clenching and several factors may be involved.. Stressful situations or an abnormal bite, sleep disorders, crooked or missing teeth, back and neck problems may be responsible. Regular dental checkups are important to detect damage in the early stages. If stress is the cause of bruxism, your dentist may recommend that you find ways to relax. Reading, listening to quiet music, stretching, deep breathing, taking a walk may also be helpful. Your dentist may also suggest a bite-guard to wear while you sleep, driving or working out. Custom made by your dentist from plastic material to fit your teeth, the bite-guard slips over the upper or lower teeth and prevents the teeth from coming together while distributing the contacts between them. It helps to relieve the pressure of grinding or clenching, which can damage delicate jaw joints. The bite-guard needs to be adjusted carefully to fit just right and checked regularly, but the effort will save you many hours in the dental chair and huge costs down the line.