Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding is a common condition that can affect sleep, comfort and overall oral health. Many people don’t realize they grind their teeth until symptoms become noticeable. The sleep medicine team at Banner Health is here to help you understand bruxism, find the cause and get the right treatment so you can sleep better and protect your teeth. 

What is teeth grinding?

 Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, happens when you clench, grind or gnash your teeth. It can happen while you are awake (awake bruxism) or while you sleep (sleep bruxism). Sleep bruxism is considered a sleep-related movement disorder and may occur along with other sleep problems like snoring or sleep apnea. 

Symptoms of teeth grinding 

Many people do not know they grind their teeth until they develop symptoms or a dentist notices changes during an exam. Common signs and symptoms include: 

• Flattened, chipped, cracked or loose teeth 
• Worn tooth enamel 
• Increased tooth sensitivity 
• Grinding or clenching loud enough to wake a sleep partner 
• Tight, tired or locked jaw muscles 
• Jaw, face or neck pain 
• Pain that feels like an earache 
• Dull headache starting at the temples 
• Chewing or biting the inside of the cheek 
• Trouble sleeping or waking at night 

Children can also grind their teeth. If you notice symptoms in your child, mention it at their next appointment. 

What causes teeth grinding? 

There is no single cause of bruxism. It is often linked to a combination of physical, emotional and genetic factors. 

Awake bruxism 

This type is usually related to: 

• Stress, anxiety or frustration 
• Concentration or intense focus 
• Habitual jaw clenching during the day 

Sleep bruxism 

Sleep-related grinding is usually associated with brief arousals during sleep. It may also occur alongside: 

• Sleep apnea 
• Snoring 
• Restless sleep 

Risk factors for bruxism 

You may be more likely to grind your teeth if you have: 

• Increased stress or anxiety 
• A competitive or highly driven personality 
• A family history of bruxism 
• Tobacco, caffeine or alcohol use 
• Recreational drug use 
• Certain medications 
• Other medical or neurologic conditions, such as: 
  • Parkinson disease 
  • Epilepsy 
  • ADHD 
  • Gastroesophageal reflux 
  • Sleep apnea 

How teeth grinding is diagnosed 

Most cases are identified during routine dental exams. Your dentist may check for: 

• Worn or cracked teeth 
• Damage to tooth enamel 
• Tender jaw muscles 
• Chewing injuries inside the cheeks 
• Changes in your bite 

They may also ask questions about your sleep, lifestyle, medications and symptoms. 

If your dentist suspects a sleep disorder, you may be referred to a sleep medicine specialist. A sleep study can help determine whether sleep bruxism occurs along with conditions like sleep apnea. 

Treatment for teeth grinding 

Not everyone who grinds their teeth needs treatment. Many children outgrow bruxism, and some adults have mild grinding that does not cause symptoms. Treatment is recommended when bruxism causes pain, sleep problems or dental damage. 

Dental and medical treatments 

Your provider may recommend: 

• Mouth guards or splints to protect teeth 
• Dental correction to fix uneven surfaces or repair damaged teeth 
• Botox injections for severe bruxism not improved with other treatments 
• Muscle relaxants before bedtime for short-term relief 
• Medication to manage anxiety or stress if needed 

If bruxism is related to a sleep disorder, treating the underlying condition can improve grinding. 

Lifestyle and self-care strategies 

You may be able to reduce symptoms by: 

• Reducing stress before bed 
• Avoiding caffeine or alcohol in the evening 
• Using relaxation techniques 
• Practicing good sleep habits 
• Applying warm compresses to the jaw 
• Scheduling regular dental visits 
• Asking your partner to note grinding or clenching sounds during sleep 

When to seek care 

If teeth grinding is causing pain, broken teeth or trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor or dentist. Early treatment can protect your teeth, relieve discomfort and improve sleep quality. 

The sleep medicine experts at Banner Health are here to support you and help you get a better night’s rest.