Bruxism is the medical term for clenching or grinding your teeth — and many people don’t even realise they’re doing it.
Some grind their teeth only during sleep (known as nocturnal bruxism), while others clench during the day. Daytime bruxism is often linked to stress or anxiety, whether from challenging life events or even positive changes like a new job or a growing family.
Causes of Bruxism
Bruxism can result from:
- Stress or anxiety
- Tooth or bite misalignment
- Habitual jaw movement
- Neurological or muscular disorders (rare)
- Side effects of certain medications, particularly some antidepressants
Why It Matters
Without treatment, bruxism can cause:
- Worn-down enamel and exposed dentin → tooth sensitivity
- Cracked or broken teeth and fillings
- Jaw joint issues like TMJ disorders (temporomandibular joint dysfunction)
- Morning headaches
- Facial pain and fatigue
- Enlarged jaw muscles (from overuse)
- Gum damage or discomfort
Common Signs & Symptoms
You may be grinding or clenching your teeth if you experience:
- Grinding noises at night (often noticed by your partner)
- Dull headaches upon waking
- Sore, tight, or stiff jaw muscles
- Difficulty opening your mouth wide, especially in the morning
- Worn, chipped, or broken teeth
- Tender jaw joints or clicking when you chew
- Swelling around the jawline from muscle overuse
If you suspect you might be grinding your teeth, visit us for a comprehensive dental check-up.
We’ll examine your bite, tooth wear, and jaw muscles. We may also ask about your sleep patterns, stress levels, and medication history. In some cases, dental X-rays are recommended to evaluate any underlying issues.
Roughly 30% of children grind their teeth, especially under age 5. Most outgrow it by their teens without long-term effects — but it’s still wise to check in with your family dentist if you notice signs.
- Children: Most stop grinding by age 13 without intervention.
- Teens & Adults: It depends on the cause. If stress or bite problems persist, so can the grinding — but treatment can often provide quick relief.
Here’s how we help prevent damage and ease discomfort:
- Custom night guards – Worn during sleep to protect your teeth and relieve jaw pressure
- Stress reduction – Lifestyle advice, therapy referrals, or muscle relaxation techniques
- Limiting stimulants – Reducing caffeine and tobacco can help
- Hot compresses – For soothing jaw tension
Stress-related Bruxism
We may recommend:
- Relaxation techniques, therapy, or biofeedback
- Short-term medication to reduce nighttime clenching (if appropriate)
- A bespoke bite guard for night use
Bite or Alignment Issues
Your treatment might include:
- Bite correction or realignment
- Restorative options like crowns or onlays to reshape worn teeth
- A bite splint to prevent further wear and support the jaw muscles
Medication Side Effects
If your grinding is linked to antidepressants, we’ll work with your GP to:
- Adjust or switch medication
- Explore supplementary medication to reduce bruxism symptoms
