Are You Clenching or Grinding Your Teeth? Here’s What You Need to Know

Do you ever wake up with a sore jaw, tension headaches, or notice your teeth feeling sensitive? You may be clenching or grinding your teeth, habits that often happen at night without you even realizing it. Known as bruxism, these behaviors can have serious long-term effects on your oral health if left untreated.

The Negative Effects of Clenching and Grinding

Even if you don’t feel discomfort, your dentist may spot the early signs of clenching or grinding during a checkup. Common effects include:

• Tooth mobility: Excess pressure can cause teeth to become slightly loose over time.

• Gum recession: The constant force can damage gum tissue, leading to recession and exposure of sensitive roots.

• Worn enamel: Grinding slowly wears away the protective enamel layer, leaving teeth more vulnerable to sensitivity and cavities.

• Headaches and jaw pain: Constant muscle tension from clenching can radiate into the temples and neck, leaving you with chronic discomfort.

• TMJ strain: The temporomandibular joint (the hinge that allows your jaw to move) may become inflamed, leading to popping, soreness, or difficulty opening your mouth fully.

  
  

Treatment and Relief Options

There are ways to protect your teeth and reduce discomfort caused by clenching and grinding:

• Botox injections to the jaw muscles: Some providers use Botox in the masseter muscles to relax the jaw and decrease grinding. While effective for some, this is not a service our office provides.

• Custom night guards: One of the most reliable ways to protect your teeth is with a professionally made night guard. Unlike over-the-counter versions, custom-fit guards are made specifically for your bite, ensuring comfort and maximum protection while you sleep. Our office can create a personalized night guard designed just for you.

  
  

  

Don’t Wait for Symptoms

It’s important to remember that not everyone with bruxism experiences pain or obvious symptoms. In fact, many patients are surprised to learn they’ve been clenching or grinding when their dentist points out the signs. Early detection can prevent more serious damage down the road.

Some people even notice themselves clenching or grinding during the day, especially in moments of stress or concentration. This can happen while running, lifting weights, driving, or focusing on work. If that’s the case, try building small habits to relax your jaw:

• When driving, every time you check your speedometer, use it as a reminder to release your jaw.

• If you clench during workouts, relax your jaw at a certain rep count.

• During stressful tasks, set a timer or sticky note reminder to check in with your jaw position.

  
  

And here’s an important tip: your teeth should only be touching when you’re chewing or swallowing, which adds up to just a few minutes each day. If you notice your teeth are together at other times, that’s a signal to relax your jaw.

FAQ: Clenching & Grinding

Q: How do I know if I grind my teeth at night? A: Since it often happens while you sleep, you may not notice. Common clues include waking up with jaw soreness, headaches, or noticing flattened or chipped teeth. Your dentist may also point out wear patterns or gum recession during your exam.

Q: Can stress make clenching and grinding worse? A: Yes. Stress and anxiety are common triggers for bruxism. Learning relaxation techniques, along with using a night guard, can help minimize the impact.

Q: Is a night guard uncomfortable to wear? A: A custom-fit night guard is designed specifically for your mouth, making it much more comfortable and effective than store-bought versions. Most patients adjust quickly and find it easy to sleep with.

Q: What happens if I don’t treat clenching or grinding? A: Without treatment, bruxism can lead to permanent tooth damage, gum recession, and chronic jaw or head pain. The earlier it’s addressed, the better the outcome.

Take the Next Step

If you think you may be clenching or grinding your teeth, or if you’d like to learn more about protecting your smile with a custom night guard, you can schedule an appointment online or call us at 614-882-2249. Stauffer Family Dental is here to help keep your teeth strong, healthy, and pain-free for years to come.