Many people grind or clench their teeth without ever realising it – often during sleep, or while concentrating and under stress. The medical name for this is bruxism, and over time it can cause real damage to your teeth, jaw and quality of sleep. The good news is that it is very treatable once it has been spotted. Here is what you need to know.

What is bruxism?

Bruxism is the habit of clenching or grinding your teeth when you are not chewing. It usually falls into two types: awake bruxism, where you clench your teeth during the day (often without noticing), and sleep bruxism, where you grind during the night. Because so much of it happens unconsciously, the first sign is frequently a problem your dentist spots, or a partner who hears the grinding at night.

What causes teeth clenching and grinding?

There is rarely a single cause, but common contributing factors include:

• Stress and anxiety – by far the most common trigger for clenching.
• Sleep problems such as snoring and sleep apnoea.
• An uneven bite, where the teeth do not meet comfortably.
• Lifestyle factors like caffeine, alcohol, smoking and some medications.

Signs you might be grinding your teeth

Because bruxism often happens while you sleep, it pays to know the warning signs:

• Aching jaw muscles or a tired jaw, especially in the morning.
• Frequent headaches, particularly around the temples.
• Teeth that look worn, flattened, chipped or increasingly sensitive.
• Pain or clicking in the jaw joint.
• Disturbed sleep, for you or your partner.

How grinding damages your teeth

Grinding generates far more force than normal chewing, and it is applied repeatedly over hours. The molars often take the brunt of it, as these are the teeth that meet when you clench. Over time this can wear away the protective enamel, flatten and crack teeth, loosen fillings and crowns, and lead to sensitivity and pain. Left unchecked, severe bruxism can also strain the jaw joint, causing the facial pain and clicking associated with TMJ problems.

How your dentist can help

Treatment focuses on protecting your teeth and tackling the cause:

1. A custom night guard (splint) – a comfortable, made-to-measure guard that cushions your teeth and absorbs the grinding forces while you sleep. This is the most common and effective protection.
2. Addressing the bite – adjusting or restoring teeth that do not meet correctly.
3. Repairing existing damage – replacing worn fillings, or restoring cracked and worn teeth.
4. Lifestyle and stress advice – simple changes around caffeine, alcohol and evening routines can make a real difference.

Worried you grind your teeth?

If you wake with a sore jaw, get regular headaches or have noticed your teeth wearing down, it is worth getting checked. At Heathwood Dental Practice in Crowthorne we can assess the damage, identify the likely cause and fit a custom night guard to protect your smile. Read more on our bruxism FAQ, or call us on 01344 776933 to book an appointment.