Pain from clenching teeth

Clenching can overload the teeth, jaw muscles, and temporomandibular joints, causing soreness, headaches, sensitivity, or cracked fillings.

Clenching repeatedly contracts the masseter and temporalis muscles and loads the periodontal ligament around each tooth. It may occur during sleep or while concentrating, and pain can also have another dental cause.

Keep the jaw relaxed with the teeth slightly apart, avoid chewing gum, and use softer foods while sore. A dentist can examine tooth wear, muscles, joints, and fillings, then discuss a fitted night guard or treatment for the cause.

Arrange a dental assessment if pain persists, teeth become sensitive or chipped, or morning jaw stiffness keeps returning. Seek urgent care for facial swelling, fever, trouble swallowing, or difficulty opening the mouth.

Ask whether the pattern fits sleep bruxism, a cracked tooth, muscle strain, or a joint disorder. Also ask whether a custom night guard, bite adjustment, restorative repair, or referral is appropriate.