Teeth grinding and clenching, also called bruxism, can place heavy pressure on the teeth, jaw muscles and dental work. Some people grind during sleep and do not realise it until a dentist notices worn teeth or they wake with jaw discomfort.
If you often wake with a sore jaw, headaches, tooth sensitivity or notice chipped or worn teeth, it is worth booking a dental check-up.
What is bruxism?
Bruxism is the habit of grinding, clenching or pressing the teeth together. It can happen during the day or during sleep.
Sleep bruxism can be harder to notice because it happens unconsciously. A partner may hear grinding sounds, or a dentist may notice signs during a check-up.
Common signs of teeth grinding
You may be grinding or clenching your teeth if you notice:
- Worn, flattened or chipped teeth
- Jaw soreness or tightness
- Headaches, especially in the morning
- Tooth sensitivity
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Cracked teeth or broken fillings
- Clicking, stiffness or discomfort around the jaw joint
- A partner noticing grinding noises during sleep
What can cause teeth grinding?
Bruxism can have different contributing factors. These may include stress, concentration habits, sleep quality, bite changes, certain medications, lifestyle factors or other medical conditions.
Sometimes there is no single obvious cause. Your dentist can check for dental signs and may suggest speaking with your doctor if symptoms suggest a broader sleep or medical issue.
Can teeth grinding damage teeth?
Yes. Ongoing grinding or clenching can wear enamel, chip teeth, crack teeth, damage fillings or crowns, and contribute to tooth sensitivity.
Heavy forces can also make existing dental problems worse, especially if a tooth is already cracked, heavily filled or weakened.
Can grinding cause jaw pain or headaches?
Yes. Clenching and grinding can overwork the jaw muscles. This may contribute to jaw tightness, facial soreness, headaches or discomfort around the jaw joint.
Jaw pain can have different causes, so a dental assessment can help identify whether grinding may be involved.
What is a night guard?
A night guard is a custom-made dental appliance worn during sleep. It does not usually stop the grinding habit itself, but it can help protect the teeth from direct grinding forces.
A custom night guard is made to fit your teeth and bite. It is different from many over-the-counter guards, which may not fit as accurately.
Do I need a night guard?
A night guard may be considered if you have signs of grinding, clenching, tooth wear, cracked teeth, broken fillings, jaw soreness or morning headaches.
Your dentist will assess your teeth, bite, jaw and symptoms before recommending whether a night guard or another approach may be suitable.
What else can help with grinding?
The right approach depends on the cause and severity. Some people may benefit from stress management, sleep routine improvements, avoiding chewing habits such as pen biting, limiting evening caffeine or alcohol, and addressing dental or medical contributors.
If symptoms are severe, your dentist may recommend further assessment or referral.
When should you see a dentist?
Book a dental check-up if you have worn teeth, jaw pain, chipped teeth, cracked fillings, tooth sensitivity, morning headaches, or you suspect you grind your teeth at night.
Early assessment can help protect teeth before wear or cracks become more serious.
Book a bruxism and night guard assessment in Lara
Lara Dental Prime can assess signs of teeth grinding, tooth wear and jaw discomfort, and explain whether a custom night guard may be suitable.
Learn more about general dental care, dental crowns for damaged teeth, or call 03 5282 2222.