Chronic teeth grinding can damage teeth and cause other oral health complications, yet many people do not realize that they do it until it has already started causing damage. Also known as “bruxism,” chronic teeth grinding affects many people at night while they are sleeping. However, even those who chronically grind or clench their teeth during waking hours may not be aware that they are doing it.

Health care researchers have suspected that there are links between oral health and overall systemic health since the late 19^th century. The theory got a significant boost this century with a 2000 report by the U.S. Surgeon General that called for more research to determine how periodontal disease is linked to cardiovascular health, stroke, diabetes, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. While the report recognized the existence of the link, it noted that researchers have not yet proven causation. Despite this, the report concluded that “oral health is integral to general health. You cannot be healthy without oral health.”

Consider the humble toothbrush. It’s one of the most important tools used to preserve our oral health, yet most people seldom give it any thought. Even while actively brushing their teeth, most people don’t think about their toothbrush, but instead ponder on other thoughts.