Also known as bruxomania, bruxism is the term used to describe tooth grinding. In most cases, bruxism occurs while one is asleep and generally the person doing the grinding is not even aware that it happening. It can also happen when a person is awake and it is usually a method of relieving tension.

Bruxism over long periods of time can eventually cause teeth to become loosened and bones that support the jaw can also become damaged. Bruxism can also cause the gums to recede. In some cases, the teeth may become pushed out of line and require the bite to be adjusted. Loss of teeth can occur as well.

Tooth grinding over the long-term can also result in tempormandibular syndrome (TMJ) which typically affects the muscles, joints & discs of the jaw. Pain while chewing is also a common symptom of this condition. A dull constant headache can accompany the condition.

Sensitivity to heat and cold can eventually lead to bruxism. Some other common causes of tooth grinding include: Allergies, stress, facial or oral trauma, malfunctions in the nervous system and deficiencies in certain nutrients.

The regimen outlined below includes a safe, natural approach to treating & preventing bruxism:

The diet should be a hypoglycemic one that includes plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits that are high in fiber. Some good recommendations are raw nuts & seeds, skinless white turkey or chicken, whole grains, legumes and broiled fish. Starchy vegetables and fruits that are very sweet should be consumed in moderation only.

Fast foods, processed foods, saturated fats, red meat, fast foods and all forms of dairy should be avoided. The same is true for artificially flavored or colored foods as well as any foods added preserves and/or chemicals.

Belladonna is a homeopathic remedy that has been shown to be effective in treating bruxism.

Avoid stress at all costs as it is one of the biggest factors associated with bruxism. One of the best ways to do so is to exercise three to four times per week. I recommend deep breathing, meditation and yoga as effective anti-stress activities.

For children who suffer from bruxism, parents should use massage or stretching exercises to relax the muscles to try to decrease the child's stress level before bedtime. The child should also drink plenty of water to ensure he or she is properly hydrated.

The following supplements may also be beneficial:

Calcium (1,500 - 2,000 mg daily) and Magnesium (750 mg daily) - Deficiencies have been linked to tooth-grinding.

Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) (500 mg twice a day) - Reduces stress.

Vitamin B Complex (100 mg of each major B vitamin twice daily) - Necessary for proper nerve function.

Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids (3,000 - 5,000 mg daily) - Stress fighter.

Chromium (200 - 400 mcg daily) - Helps normalize blood sugar.

L-Tyosine (take as directed on label) - Amino acid that reduces stress.

Melatonin (take as directed on label) - Aids restful sleep and may reduce tooth-grinding. Use only in people age 30 and older.

SAMe (take as directed on label) - Reduces stress and acts as an antidepressant.

Zinc (50 mg daily) - Supports the immune system and helps reduce stress.

* Important notes: The recommended doses are for those over age 18 unless otherwise stated. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.