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Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Grinding of Teeth

Prevention & Expectations

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Prevention and treatment of this condition are very similar. Treatment is aimed at stopping the habitual clenching or grinding of the teeth. A person should visit a dentist as soon as he or she is aware of this problem.

Prevention and treatment may include the following:

bite modification procedures, sometimes called bite equilibration

biofeedback therapy

mild sleeping aids

mouthguards to wear at night

muscle relaxants

orthodontia, or special dental appliances such as braces

repair of faulty dental crowns or restorations

replacement of missing teeth

stress management counseling

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

If ignored or inadequately treated, teeth grinding can lead to the following serious complications:

gingivitis, or gum inflammation

loss of teeth

periodontitis, or inflammation of tissue around the base of a tooth

severe wear on teeth

temporomandibular joint disorders, or TMJ

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