Why do i grind my teeth?!

Why do i grind my teeth?

I am not overly stressed or anything, but i have started to grind my teeth at night, and each morning i wake up with side of my mouth which i grind in pain. When im drifting off to sleep i feel myself starting to grind the same side.
What could this be? Ive read something about it being linked to nutritional status, but i consider myself to have a balanced diet, (im on a nutrition degree).
Any ideas?
Thank you

Bruxism [derived from Greek βρυγμός (brugmós), gnashing of teeth] is grinding of the teeth.

This is an oral para-functional activity observed in most people to some degree. Bruxism affects a great portion of adults and estimates span from 50 to 95%. Bruxism includes clenching and/or grinding of the teeth. Bruxism is caused by the activation of reflex chewing activity; it is not a learned habit. Chewing is a complex neuromuscular activity that is controlled by reflex nerve pathways with higher control by the brain. During sleep, the reflex part is active, while the brain control is inactive. The result is an abnormal chewing action known as bruxism. Some dentists believe it is due to a lack of symmetry in the teeth; others, that it reflects anxiety, digestive problems or a disturbed sleep pattern.


Unfortunately, there is no accepted cure as yet. Ongoing management of bruxism is based on prevention of the abrasion of tooth surfaces by the wearing of a full-width acrylic dental guard, created to the shape of the individual's upper or lower teeth from a bite mould. The traditional way of doing this requires visits to a dentist for measuring and fitting. However, dental mouth guards are also available directly from the lab. The consumer places an order and the lab sends them a kit. Using the kit, the consumer takes bite molds of their teeth; and then, sends the kit back to the lab where they're used to construct the guard. This method is much more economical, ranging between $100 and $200, than going to the dentist where the cost could be $800 to $1000. Another alternative, would be to purchase over-the-counter dental guards from the local drug store. These usually range from $20 to $50, but they are not custom fitted and may not fit everyone. The main goal of treatment is to prevent further tooth damage, and requires that the nightguard be worn as long as the person has teeth.

There is limited evidence that suggests taking certain combinations of vitamin supplements may alleviate bruxism.

One way of stopping the damage and severity of grinding and clenching is through the making of a repositioning splint. A repositioning splint looks like the traditional night guard but has certain functions built into it. This device not only protects your teeth when you do grind but in addition, it reduces your urge to grind.

It can be linked to stress or worry and methods of prevention are drinking milk before sleeping and not stressing before sleeping. Soft drinks ie coke also do not help the problem.