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How does stress cause grinding?

Stress often puts our bodies into a 'fight or flight' mode, even when there's no physical danger. This can lead to muscle tension, especially in the jaw. Unconsciously, people might clench or grind their teeth, particularly during sleep, as a way their body releases this pent-up tension. This is why dentists are seeing more young people with bruxism.

Stories that explain this

Dentists report more young people grinding teeth due to stress

Questions this opens up

What is fight or flight? Can stress affect sleep? How do muscles get tense?

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