Teeth clenching and grinding, often referred to as bruxism, affects individuals of all ages. Many people never notice the habit until symptoms appear. Grinding may occur during the day, but it most often happens at night while sleeping. This repeated motion places strain on the jaw and wears down teeth, creating problems for both oral and overall health. Understanding why it happens and how to limit the damage makes a significant difference in knowing how to manage it.
Causes of Teeth Grinding
Daytime grinding is most likely caused by stress or anxiety. Stress naturally triggers faster breathing, dilated pupils, and tightened muscles. The tensing of your jaw muscles causes your teeth to clench together, sometimes without even knowing it.
Poor sleep is another cause for grinding. Stress often makes it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. In addition, disorders such as sleep apnea or ADHD also increase the likelihood of nighttime grinding. Research shows that most grinding episodes occur during non-REM sleep, when the body is at rest but the brain remains active.
Other causes of grinding include:
- Certain antidepressant medications (SSRIs)
- Misaligned teeth or bite problems
- Tobacco, alcohol, and excessive caffeine use
No matter the cause or the time of day, it is important to understand that chronic grinding requires attention from a dental professional.
Effects of Teeth Grinding
Uncontrolled bruxism damages teeth and harms jaw function. Common problems include:
- Jaw pain, tension headaches, and TMJ disorders
- Worn enamel and increased tooth sensitivity
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- Damage to crowns, bridges, or implants
Without treatment, long-term grinding may lead to major restorative dental work. Preventing damage early saves teeth and reduces future dental costs.
Protecting Teeth from Grinding
Reducing bruxism begins with identifying the root cause. We recommend the following steps, dependent on your specific situation, to help reduce the habit:
Manage Stress
Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, help calm the body. Regular exercise also promotes the release of hormones that improve mood, thus reducing stress-related grinding.
Improve Sleep
Create a consistent bedtime routine. Limit screen time in the evening and keep electronic devices out of the bedroom. Avoid caffeine before bedtime, as it causes muscle tension and disrupts rest. Alcohol negatively impacts sleep by reducing REM cycles, which increases the likelihood of grinding.
Visit Your Dentist
Routine check-ups every six months allow for early detection of bruxism. Signs include flattened or chipped teeth, jaw soreness, and unusual wear patterns. A dentist may recommend a custom mouthguard to protect teeth at night. If teeth do not align correctly, orthodontic treatment may also reduce grinding.
Protecting teeth from bruxism safeguards both your comfort and health. Understanding why you are grinding your teeth and then employing some of the tips above will help you reduce the amount that grinding controls your life.
Schedule a visit with Lakeside Dental today, and let us help you protect your teeth for years to come!
