Teeth Grinding & Clenching

Bruxism may happen while a person is awake or asleep. Awake clenching is a subconscious habit, and changing it takes repeated practice; sleep-related grinding can be noticed by a partner.

Reduce daytime clenching when you notice it, protect sleep, and avoid keeping the jaw muscles tense. Sleep hygiene and stress reduction can improve symptoms linked with TMD and bruxism.

A clinical history asks about jaw pain, headaches, sleep, and tooth damage. Examination can look for tenderness, jaw sounds, restricted movement, worn teeth, sensitivity, and damaged fillings.

Treatment focuses on reducing symptoms and protecting the teeth. Behaviour changes for awake clenching, improved sleep, stress management, and conservative jaw care are used; medicines are unlikely to be prescribed specifically for bruxism.

Interrupting daytime clenching and continuing to practise the new habit can reduce muscle activity. Acting when sensitivity or tooth damage appears helps prevent bruxism from progressing unnoticed.

Jaw pain may develop into TMD, while tooth wear can bring sensitivity and loss of teeth or fillings. Headaches, earache, and disturbed sleep are also reported symptoms.

Arrange an assessment if grinding causes tooth damage or sensitivity, pain in the jaw, face, or ear, or if someone reports that you grind during sleep. Concern about a child’s grinding also warrants attention.