What is it?
Bruxism is unconsciously clenching or grinding the teeth. The form that occurs during sleep is the most common, and the person is usually unaware of it; the first warning is often a partner hearing it or a dentist spotting wear facets.
The force applied can reach several times normal chewing force and continue for hours. The result: flattened tooth surfaces, enamel fractures, rising sensitivity, morning ache in the jaw muscles and fractures in porcelain restorations.
Signs
You will not necessarily have all of these at once.
Why does it happen?
- 01
Stress and anxiety
The most commonly associated factor; symptoms are frequently reported to worsen in demanding periods.
- 02
Sleep disorders
There is a strong association with sleep apnoea; if snoring accompanies it, this should be investigated.
- 03
Bite discrepancy
Teeth that don't meet evenly can send the jaw searching for a comfortable position all night.
- 04
Caffeine, alcohol and certain medications
Substances that disrupt sleep architecture increase the frequency of night-time clenching.
How is it treated?
The core treatment is a night guard. It doesn't stop the clenching but distributes the force, protecting the teeth, the jaw joint and any porcelain restorations. Hard guards made to a custom impression are markedly more effective than soft off-the-shelf versions.
Where wear has advanced, lost tooth height is rebuilt with composite or crowns. If muscle pain dominates, physiotherapy, relaxation exercises or botulinum injections may be considered. Protection must be in place before worn teeth are restored; otherwise the new work fractures too.
How is it prevented?
- Limit caffeine and alcohol in the evening
- Notice whether your teeth touch during the day; at rest they should not
- If you've had veneers or crowns, treat the night guard as non-negotiable
- If you snore, ask for a sleep assessment
Frequently asked questions
- Does a night guard cure grinding?
- No, it doesn't remove the habit. Its job is to spread the force and protect the teeth and joint from damage, which is the most decisive long-term intervention.
- Can grinding cause headaches?
- Yes. When the temple muscle is overworked, a headache starting at the temples in the morning is typical.
This content is for general information and does not replace an in-person examination. Symptoms overlap between conditions, and a diagnosis can only be made clinically.