Some dentists say more young people are grinding their teeth - are you one of them?
Dentists are reporting an increase in bruxism, or teeth grinding, among young people, often attributing the rise to modern life stressors. The condition can lead to significant dental damage and jaw pain, though various treatments are available to manage symptoms.
Why it matters
Rising rates of stress-related physical conditions highlight the broader impact of mental health on physical well-being.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Nearly one in four people are thought to have bruxism, although most are unaware they grind their teeth
Ella can't remember when she first started grinding her teeth at night, but she can vividly recall the excruciating jaw ache, the headaches, and being told her molars were disappearing.
"I was in so much pain," Ella says. "My face was changing shape and my teeth were at risk of breaking - I knew I had to do something about it."
The 31-year-old has bruxism, a condition which can cause regular and often intense teeth grinding, but says the treatment she's recently had has "without a doubt" changed her life.
Bruxism affects millions like Ella across the UK , external . Some studies suggest nearly one in four people experience the condition, although many may be unaware until symptoms appear.
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