Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Signs, Causes and Treatment

Waking up with a sore jaw, a dull headache, or teeth that feel sensitive and worn? You may be grinding or clenching your teeth, a habit called bruxism. Many people do it without knowing, especially during sleep. Over time it can wear down enamel, crack or chip teeth, and strain the jaw muscles. Here is how to recognize the signs, what can cause it, and what dentists commonly recommend.

Quick answer

Bruxism means grinding, gnashing or clenching the teeth, either while awake or asleep.
Common signs include a sore jaw, tooth sensitivity or pain, flattened or chipped teeth, and morning headaches.
Stress, sleep problems, caffeine, alcohol, smoking and some medications are linked with it.
A dentist can check for wear and may recommend a custom night guard, plus stress and habit changes.

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What Is Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)?

Bruxism is the repeated grinding or clenching of the teeth. There are two main types:

Awake bruxism: clenching or grinding during the day, often without noticing, for example while concentrating or feeling stressed.
Sleep bruxism: grinding during sleep. It is often noticed by a partner who hears the sound, or by a dentist who sees the wear on your teeth.

Occasional grinding may not cause harm, but frequent or forceful grinding can.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Jaw soreness, tightness or fatigue, especially in the morning
Dull headaches around the temples
Tooth pain or sensitivity to hot, cold or sweets
Flattened, worn, chipped or cracked teeth
Indentations on the tongue or a chewed-looking inner cheek
Clicking or popping in the jaw joint, or difficulty opening wide
Earache-like pain with no ear infection
Disturbed sleep, or a partner who hears grinding at night

Pain in the jaw joint can also come from other causes, see our guide to TMJ and jaw pain when chewing. If a tooth hurts deeply, ask your dentist to rule out a cracked tooth or nerve problem, and read about tooth nerve pain.

What Causes Teeth Grinding?

The exact cause is not always clear, and it is often a mix of factors. Commonly linked factors include:

Stress and anxiety, which are often associated with clenching and grinding
Sleep problems, including snoring and obstructive sleep apnea
Caffeine, alcohol and smoking, which are associated with more grinding in some people
Some medications, such as certain antidepressants, in some people. Do not stop a prescribed medicine on your own, talk to your doctor.
Bite or jaw alignment issues, though research on this link is mixed
Family history, since bruxism sometimes runs in families

How Teeth Grinding Can Damage Your Mouth

Enamel wear, making teeth look shorter and feel more sensitive
Chips and cracks, sometimes needing bonding or crowns. See why a tooth may chip for no reason
Loose teeth or gum recession in some cases
Jaw muscle and joint strain, leading to pain and headaches
Damage to dental work, such as fillings, crowns and implants

How Is Bruxism Diagnosed?

A dentist can look for worn or flattened teeth, chips, sensitivity and tender jaw muscles during an exam, and ask about your sleep, stress and habits. In some cases, they may refer you to a physician or sleep specialist if sleep apnea or another sleep problem is suspected.

Treatment and Self-Care Options

Night Guards and Splints

A night guard (occlusal splint) is a plastic cover worn over the teeth, usually at night. It does not necessarily stop the grinding, but it can protect teeth from wear and reduce strain. A custom guard made by your dentist is fitted to your teeth and is generally considered more durable and comfortable than store-bought versions. Boil-and-bite guards from a pharmacy can be an interim option, but ask your dentist whether they are right for you. See our guide to mouthguards for grinding teeth.

Stress and Habit Changes

Practice relaxation, regular exercise and a calming bedtime routine.
Notice daytime clenching and remind yourself to keep your teeth apart, lips closed, and jaw relaxed.
Avoid chewing gum, pens and ice, which keep jaw muscles working.
Cut back on caffeine and alcohol, especially in the evening, and avoid smoking.

Other Options a Dentist or Doctor May Discuss

Treating underlying sleep apnea or sleep disorders
Repairing worn or damaged teeth
Jaw exercises, physical therapy or warm compresses for muscle soreness
In some cases, clinicians use muscle-relaxing injections for severe jaw clenching. This is a decision to make with a qualified professional.

If your teeth are sensitive from wear, a desensitizing toothpaste may help. See our guide to the best toothpaste for sensitive teeth.

When to See a Dentist

Your jaw is stiff, sore, or locks or clicks
You wake with headaches or facial pain regularly
Teeth look worn, chipped or flattened, or feel unusually sensitive
A partner hears you grinding at night
You have severe tooth pain, swelling or fever, which need prompt attention

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes teeth grinding at night?

It is often linked to stress, sleep problems, caffeine, alcohol or smoking, and sometimes certain medications. The cause varies from person to person.

Can teeth grinding cause tooth pain?

Yes. Grinding can wear enamel, cause sensitivity and cracks, and strain the jaw muscles, which can feel like tooth pain. A dentist can tell which it is.

How do I know if I grind my teeth?

Signs include jaw soreness, morning headaches, worn or chipped teeth and a partner hearing grinding. Your dentist can often spot wear patterns during an exam.

Will a night guard stop me from grinding?

A night guard mainly protects your teeth and reduces strain. It may not stop the habit itself, so stress management and treating any underlying causes also matter.

Is teeth grinding permanent?

It can come and go, and for some people it improves when stress or other triggers are reduced. Ask your dentist how to monitor and protect your teeth.

This article is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional dental or medical advice. See your dentist for personal diagnosis and treatment.

Sources: American Dental Association (MouthHealthy), information on teeth grinding; Mayo Clinic, patient overview of bruxism; National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), TMJ disorders.