Teeth grinding and night guards: causes, signs and what you can do

Teeth grinding, in dental terms bruxism, means grinding or clenching the teeth, often completely unconsciously. It can happen at night, but also during the day, for example under stress or concentration.

Common signs

• Teeth that look worn, flat or have small cracks and chipped edges.
• Sensitive teeth, especially to cold.
• Pain or tension in the jaws and face, often in the morning.
• Headaches, especially over the temples.
• Clicking or noises from the jaw joints, or difficulty opening the mouth wide.
• Indentations from the teeth in the tongue or cheeks.
• Someone has heard you grind at night.

Why do people grind?

There is seldom a single cause. Stress and worry are common, and so is poor or disturbed sleep, including sleep apnoea. Caffeine, alcohol and smoking can contribute, and some medicines, for example some for depression, can increase grinding. There is also some family tendency.

What does it do to the teeth?

Over time the enamel can wear down, and the teeth become sensitive, short or crack. The jaw muscles can be overworked and ache. You can get damage without feeling anything, so an early visit can save a lot.

What is a night guard?

A night guard is a thin plastic splint that is placed over the teeth, usually on the upper or lower jaw, and worn at night. It protects the teeth from wear and can ease the load on the jaw. It does not remove the cause of the grinding, but it stops the teeth from wearing down.

• The best guard is made from an impression or scan of your teeth, so that it fits exactly and is comfortable.
• Night guards are usually made after an examination by a dentist. We help you assess the wear and advise on the next step.
• The guard needs cleaning daily and checking from time to time.

What you can do yourself

• Try to release the tension in your jaw: teeth apart and lips together when you are not chewing or swallowing.
• Avoid chewing gum, nails and pens.
• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol in the evening, and create a calm routine before sleep.
• Warmth, for example a warm towel against the jaw muscles, can ease it.
• Find something that reduces stress: walks, exercise, breathing exercises or talking.

When should you seek care?

If you have jaw or facial pain that does not go away, if the jaw sticks or locks, if teeth crack or become very sensitive, or if you have signs of wear. Also read about sensitive teeth. At Munhälsa Clinic we can look at your teeth, explain what we see and help you on.