Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Mar 27, 2025
Do you wake up with a sore jaw or headaches? Have you noticed excessive wear on your teeth? You might be grinding your teeth—a condition known as bruxism. While occasional teeth grinding isn’t usually harmful, frequent grinding can lead to serious dental and overall health issues.
At Dr. David’s Family Dentistry, we want to help you understand why teeth grinding happens, how it affects your oral health, and what you can do to stop it.
Bruxism can happen during the day (awake bruxism) or at night (sleep bruxism). While the exact causes vary, some common triggers include:
Stress and Anxiety – High-stress levels can cause unconscious clenching and grinding.
Sleep Disorders – Conditions like sleep apnea are often linked to nighttime grinding.
Misaligned Teeth (Malocclusion) – If your bite is off, your jaw may try to compensate by grinding.
Caffeine and Alcohol – Excessive consumption of these can increase muscle activity in the jaw.
Medications and Medical Conditions – Certain antidepressants and neurological disorders can contribute to bruxism.
Bruxism can be hard to detect, especially if it occurs while you sleep. However, some common symptoms include:
✔️ Worn-down, chipped, or flattened teeth
✔️ Increased tooth sensitivity or pain
✔️ Sore jaw, neck, or facial muscles
✔️ Headaches, especially in the morning
✔️ Clicking or popping in the jaw (TMJ issues)
✔️ Disturbed sleep (for you or your partner)
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a dentist before the damage worsens.
The good news? There are effective treatments to prevent bruxism from damaging your teeth and causing discomfort. Here’s what we recommend:
A professionally made nightguard acts as a protective barrier between your teeth, reducing the impact of grinding while you sleep.
Since stress is a major trigger, relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and exercise can help reduce grinding.
If your teeth are misaligned, orthodontic treatments or bite adjustments may help eliminate grinding caused by an uneven bite.
Cutting back on caffeine and alcohol, avoiding chewing gum, and maintaining good sleep habits can make a big difference.
If sleep apnea is a factor, addressing it with a CPAP machine or other treatments may also reduce teeth grinding.
Bruxism can cause significant dental issues, but with early intervention and the right treatment, you can protect your teeth and improve your overall health. If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with Dr. David’s Family Dentistry today!
Our team is here to help you preserve your smile and relieve discomfort. Call us at (323)724-9536 or book an appointment online!