Have you ever heard a noise coming from your teeth while eating? The sound can be like clicking, crunching, or other small noises. If it only happens occasionally, it might not be too disturbing. But if it happens frequently, it can certainly be intriguing.
Teeth grinding when chewing: What causes it? It turns out there are several factors that can contribute to this condition, ranging from teeth clenching, dental problems, to jaw joint disorders.
Causes of Teeth Grinding When Chewing
When chewing, the upper and lower teeth meet. If the teeth are not positioned properly, this impact can produce a small sound when chewing food.
This condition is usually not immediately painful. However, if the sound persists or becomes more frequent, it's best not to ignore it. An improper bite position can put more pressure on some teeth.
1. There is a cracked tooth
A cracked tooth can also be a cause of teeth grinding when eating. Small cracks in teeth are sometimes difficult to spot, especially if they're located at the back.
Besides the noise, cracked teeth can cause discomfort when biting into certain foods. Some people also experience tooth sensitivity when exposed to food or drinks that are too cold or hot.
2. The dental filling is no longer the right size.
If you've had dental fillings before, pay attention to whether any noises start to appear after the treatment. Fillings that are too high can put more pressure on the tooth when biting.
As a result, your bite may feel different than usual. Your teeth may also feel like they're meeting first when you close your mouth or chew.
3. Teeth Grinding Habit
Some people often unconsciously grind or clench their teeth, especially while sleeping. This habit is known as bruxism and can put excessive pressure on the teeth.
If done continuously, the tooth surface can become more worn. Teeth can also become sensitive or uncomfortable when chewing.
4. The Jaw Joint Makes Noise
Not all chewing sounds originate from the teeth. They could originate from the jaw joint near the ear.
The jaw joint helps the mouth open, close, and move during chewing. If there's a problem with this joint, clicking or crunching sounds can occur when the jaw moves.
5. Cavities Can Be a Cause
Cavities also need attention. Cavities can make teeth more fragile and can cause discomfort when chewing.
In certain circumstances, food can also become stuck in the cavity. If left untreated, the problem can worsen and cause toothache.
6. Irregular Teeth Growth
Everyone's teeth are arranged differently. Some grow in fairly neatly, while others are crooked, crowded, or overlapping.
Misaligned teeth can affect how the upper and lower teeth meet. This can sometimes cause a clicking sound when biting or chewing food.
7. Wisdom Teeth Are Growing
Emerging wisdom teeth can also make the back of your mouth feel different, especially if there isn't enough room for them to grow.
Besides discomfort, the gums around the wisdom teeth can be painful or swollen. Crooked wisdom teeth can also affect the surrounding teeth.
Is Teeth Grinding Dangerous When Chewing?
A chewing noise doesn't always indicate a serious problem. If it only happens once and isn't accompanied by other symptoms, there's usually no need to panic.
However, this condition should be paid attention to if it starts to be accompanied by toothache, tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, difficulty opening the mouth, or the sound appears more frequently.
Tips to Prevent Teeth Grinding When Chewing from Getting Worse
While waiting for your examination, you can avoid foods that are too hard or tough if chewing is uncomfortable. Choose foods that are easier to chew for the time being.
Also, maintain dental hygiene by brushing regularly. Clean between your teeth to prevent food debris from accumulating and causing other problems.
When Should You See a Dentist?
If your teeth are making persistent noises when chewing, you should see a dentist. An examination can help determine whether the problem is with your teeth, your bite, or your jaw joint.
Especially if pain or tooth sensitivity occurs, don't wait until the condition worsens before seeking help.
When you hear a noise coming from your teeth or jaw, avoid trying to reposition your teeth yourself. Also, don't intentionally bite down on hard objects to try to identify the source of the noise.
Such practices can actually put additional pressure on the teeth. It's best to pay attention to when the sound occurs and any accompanying symptoms, then tell your dentist about them during your examination.
Conclusion
So, what causes teeth grinding when chewing? Causes can vary, from tooth alignment, cracked teeth, poorly fitting fillings, teeth grinding, to jaw joint problems.
If the noise is only occasional and doesn't cause any other symptoms, you don't need to worry immediately. However, if the noise occurs frequently and is accompanied by pain, soreness, or jaw discomfort, you should see a dentist immediately.
With proper examination, the cause can be known more clearly and treatment can also be adjusted to the condition of the teeth and jaw.