Oral healthcare professionals have warned that there could be an increase in emergency dentistry if people do not act to stop excessive teeth grinding.
Also known as bruxism, the Irish Dental Association said it has seen a sharp increase in cases, which it attributed to the economic downturn.
Usually, around one in five patients suffers from the condition, but many more are now visiting their dentists with the headaches, sore jaws and tooth damage caused by it.
Dr Dermot Canavan said: "There has been a substantial increase in the number of patients suffering from this condition. From talking to patients, it is clear that many are facing severe financial pressures."
He added that anyone suffering from such symptoms should seek help in order to prevent emergency dentistry.
Last month, Michele Bell of FitSugar.com recently said she was advised to cut down on caffeine by her dentist after beginning to suffer from bruxism.
