Understanding Bruxism (Grinding) and How to Stop It
Have you ever woken up with a sore jaw, a dull headache, or sensitive teeth and wondered why? You might be one of the millions of people who suffer from bruxism, the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, most often during sleep. While occasional grinding might not seem like a big deal, chronic bruxism can lead to serious dental and health consequences if left untreated!
Let’s talk about what bruxism is, how it affects your smile and overall well-being, and most importantly, what you can do to stop it.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is a condition where a person unconsciously grinds, clenches, or gnashes their teeth. It can occur during the day , but is most commonly experienced at night (sleep bruxism). Because it happens while you’re asleep, many people don’t even know they have it until the symptoms show up, or their dentist spots the signs during a routine exam. Some people grind with intense force, putting hundreds of pounds of pressure on their teeth and jaw. Over time, this can cause a range of dental issues that aren’t just painful, they’re also expensive to fix!
What Causes Teeth Grinding?
Bruxism has multiple causes and risk factors. Stress and anxiety are one of the leading factors. One of the main contributors to nighttime grinding is emotional stress. People under pressure are more likely to clench their jaw or grind during sleep.
Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and snoring have been linked to bruxism. The airway is restricted and puts the body into stress mode which leads to grinding or clenching.
Bite issues are a huge contributor to clenching and grinding (Bruxism). Misaligned teeth (malocclusion) or jaw problems can cause frequent clenching and grinding that can lead to more serious issues.
Lifestyle Factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption, and the use of recreational drugs can increase the likelihood of grinding.
Some medications, especially certain antidepressants (SSRI’s), are known to trigger bruxism as a side effect.
How Does Grinding Damage Your Smile?
The effects of bruxism aren’t always obvious right away, but the damage can be progressive and permanent. Constant grinding wears down tooth enamel, flattening the chewing surfaces and making teeth more prone to cavities and sensitivity. The excessive force from clenching and grinding can cause small cracks, or even break teeth or dental restorations like crowns and fillings. Jaw pain and TMJ issues are typically a direct result of bruxism. The grinding often leads to jaw discomfort, stiffness, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can affect how you eat, speak, and function daily. Morning headaches, especially around the temples, are common in those who grind their teeth. In severe cases, the pressure from grinding can loosen teeth and impact gum health.
If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth at night, your dentist can check for the tell-tale signs, like flattened chewing surfaces, worn enamel, or indentations on the tongue.
How Can You Stop Grinding?
The good news is that bruxism is treatable, and there are several steps you can take to protect your teeth and reduce grinding.
Custom Night Guard
A professionally made night guard, also known as an occlusal splint or bite guard, is one of the most effective ways to protect your teeth. Worn while you sleep, it acts as a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, cushioning the pressure and preventing damage. Many people that lift heavy weights in the gym during workouts wear an occlusal guard to help prevent clenching and grinding.
Manage Stress
Since stress is a major factor in grinding, finding ways to manage anxiety can make a big difference. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, journaling, or talking to a mental health professional can help calm your nervous system before bedtime.
Limit Stimulants
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco, especially in the evening hours. These substances can increase the likelihood of grinding and make sleep quality worse overall.
Correct Bite Issues
If your bruxism is linked to a misaligned bite, your dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment, restorative procedures, or adjustments to help even out the pressure on your teeth.
Treat Underlying Sleep Disorders
If sleep apnea or another disorder is contributing to your grinding, addressing that root issue can improve both your sleep and your dental health. A sleep study may be recommended in some cases.
Don’t Let Grinding Grind Down Your Smile
Bruxism is more than just an annoying habit, it’s a serious dental condition that can wear down your teeth and compromise your oral health! The earlier it’s detected, the easier it is to manage and treat.
If you’re waking up with jaw pain, headaches, or signs of wear on your teeth, don’t ignore it. Talk to your dentist about your symptoms and ask about getting evaluated for bruxism. With the right tools and strategies, you can protect your smile and get back to resting easy.
Your teeth deserve a break, especially while you sleep! Let your dental team help you put an end to grinding and give your smile the protection it needs.
Sherri Merritt
Dental Consultant & Trainer
