Teeth grinding – or bruxism – is a common condition that can lead to jaw pain, headaches, and damage to your teeth. Whether it occurs during the day or at night, understanding the causes of bruxism and how to manage it is essential for maintaining good oral health. In this guide, we'll explore the causes, symptoms, and treatments for teeth grinding, advise when it's time to seek help from a dental professional, and reveal a surprising habit that may be making your symptoms worse! 

What are the symptoms of teeth grinding?  

If you're grinding your teeth, it may be going unnoticed. While your dentist may be able to tell if you're grinding your teeth from their condition, you may not realise that you're experiencing symptoms. If you are experiencing:  

• Jaw pain or stiffness, especially after waking 

• Frequent headaches or earaches 

• Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth 

• Increased tooth sensitivity 

• Clicking or popping in the jaw joint 

Tooth grinding could be the cause.  

What causes teeth grinding?  

• Stress and anxiety: The most common cause of teeth grinding is stress – something that has the potential to impact all of us at some point in our lives. Stress and anxiety often lead individuals to grind their teeth unconsciously, especially during times of high tension. This can result in jaw pain, headaches and disturbed sleep. 

• Sleep disorders: Conditions like sleep apnoea and insomnia can disrupt normal sleep patterns, making teeth grinding during sleep more likely. You may wake up with sore jaws or teeth without realising the underlying sleep issue. 

• Lifestyle habits: High caffeine or alcohol intake, smoking, and poor sleep hygiene may all contribute to or worsen teeth grinding. 

• Certain medications: Certain medications, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), have been linked to increased teeth grinding. Stimulants like caffeine can also heighten the risk. 

When should I see a dentist about teeth grinding? 

You should book an appointment with your dentist if:  

• You experience persistent jaw pain, headaches, or tooth sensitivity 

• Your teeth appear chipped, flat, or worn down 

• You struggle to sleep due to jaw discomfort or clenching at night  

Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term damage and protect your overall oral health. 

How to stop teeth grinding 

• Lifestyle changes to stop teeth grinding: How you can be treated when you grind your teeth depends on the cause of your condition. If you're stressed, relaxation techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, yoga or meditation can help reduce the tension that contributes to grinding. Engaging in hobbies and regular exercise can also provide stress relief. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other psychological therapies can often help address stress and anxiety, which are often at the root of bruxism. If you have an irregular sleep schedule or poor sleep quality, establishing a consistent sleep routine and aiming for 7–9 hours of rest each night can be beneficial. Limiting caffeine and alcohol consumption, especially before bed, can lower anxiety levels and improve sleep quality. 

• Dental treatment for teeth grinding: If lifestyle changes aren't enough, a dentist can recommend targeted solutions. Worn while sleeping, a custom-fitted mouthguard creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This helps reduce wear, prevent damage, and relieve jaw pain. At mydentist, we can provide custom mouthguards designed to fit your bite comfortably and securely – visit our mouthguard page to learn more. In some cases, muscle relaxants, anti-anxiety medication, or even targeted injections may be recommended to ease muscle tension and reduce grinding. 

Is chewing gum bad for your teeth?  

Sugar-free gum can be a great way to freshen your breath between cleaning your teeth. It may come as a surprise to learn that but chewing gum can worsen teeth grinding symptoms. The constant chewing motion can overwork your jaw muscles, increase tension and make grinding more likely. If you grind your teeth, it's best to avoid gum and try other ways to freshen your breath – like using mouthwash or rinsing with water after eating.  

I'm concerned about teeth grinding, what should I do?  

Teeth grinding can seriously damage your mouth if left untreated, but it's a manageable condition with the right approach.  

At mydentist, we're here to help you maintain a healthy smile, free from pain and damage. If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth – especially at night – don't wait. Talk to your dentist and explore your options. If you're new to mydentist and looking for a practice, find your local mydentist practice today. Or, browse our comprehensive treatment offering or find more information about mydentist at www.mydentist.co.uk.