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Unstable Stock Market Takes A Grind On Your Teeth

MIAMI(CBS4) - Economic pressures have affected  millions of Americans and dentists have noticed.

With the unpredictable stock market going up and down, the number of teeth grinders has gone up.

Apart from headaches, teeth grinders can suffer from tense neck and shoulder pain, tiredness and apparent wear and tear on their teeth.

Frank Lahage, who buys and sells boats for a living, has suffered the ups and downs in this economy and his teeth have paid the price.

"I had a couple of headaches in the beginning and I said something is bothering me," said Lahage.

Coconut Grove dentist Rita Dargham says she sees it every day.

"As a result of the economy bruxing and grinding are more apparent today," said Dargham. "The worst case scenario if it goes untreated."

According to Dargham, a piece of food or wrong movement could split the tooth in half or crack it.

"It's better to not let the stress take a toll on your teeth," said Lahage."Do something before it gets worse."

A simple solution could be a night guard.

Dentists say there has been a 20 to 25 percent higher demand for them due to our stressful economy.

Night guards will cost you between four to seven hundred dollars. Over the counter night guards run about 15 or 30 bucks. Dentists say they may not fit well, but they are a solution.

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