Causes of teeth grinding symptoms

Overview

Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is when you clench, grind, or gnash your teeth without meaning to. It often happens during sleep, but some people do it while awake.

Yes, teeth grinding is very common. Around 8–10% of adults and 15–30% of children grind their teeth.

Teeth grinding can affect anyone, but it is most common in children, young adults, and people under stress.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Jaw or facial pain, especially in the morning
• Headaches, especially when waking up
• Earache without an ear infection
• Tight or tired jaw muscles
• Teeth that are sensitive, worn down, or chipped
• Locking of the jaw

Symptoms in children

• Complaints of jaw or face pain
• Inability to sleep through the night
• Worn or chipped tooth enamel
• Grinding noises heard by others at night

Symptoms in older adults

• Worsening of existing dental problems
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Jaw pain or clicking sounds
• Frequent headaches

Causes

Main causes

• Stress and anxiety
• Sleep disorders such as sleep apnoea
• Certain medicines, like some types of antidepressants
• Teeth that do not align properly (a 'bad bite')
• Caffeine, alcohol, or smoking, especially before bed

Risk factors

• Age – teeth grinding is common in children and young adults
• Personality type – people who are competitive, hyperactive, or anxious may grind more
• Family history – grinding can run in families
• Other health conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease or acid reflux

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe jaw pain that does not go away
• If you think you have a broken tooth or lost a filling

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you notice wear on your teeth
• If you have morning headaches or jaw soreness regularly

Diagnosis

Your dentist or GP will ask about your symptoms and examine your mouth and jaw.

Tests that may be done

• Dental exam to check for tooth wear
• Sleep study (polysomnography) if a sleep disorder is suspected
• Neurological exam if related to a movement disorder

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will ask about your stress levels, sleep habits, and any medicines you take. They may also check for signs of grinding on your teeth.

Treatment

Treatment aims to prevent tooth damage and relieve pain. It often involves a combination of self-care and professional help.

Self-care at home

• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol in the evening
• Apply a warm compress to your jaw
• Massage your jaw muscles gently

Medical treatments

Your dentist may fit a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth at night. In some cases, treating underlying stress, anxiety, or sleep disorders can help. Muscle relaxants or therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may be recommended.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for teeth grinding. It may be considered only if severe jaw joint problems do not improve with other treatments.

Living with this condition

Teeth grinding can be managed with consistent self-care and regular dental visits. Most people can reduce symptoms effectively.

Lifestyle tips

• Get enough sleep and maintain a regular sleep schedule
• Avoid chewing gum or pens, which can train your jaw to clench
• Practice good posture to reduce neck and shoulder tension

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet and avoid very hard foods that stress your jaw. Gentle jaw exercises may help relax muscles.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Chronic grinding can cause anxiety about tooth damage or embarrassment about grinding noises. It is important to address any stress or worry with a professional.

Prevention

While you cannot always prevent grinding, reducing stress and avoiding triggers like caffeine before bed can lower your chances.

Complications

If left untreated

• Tooth wear and chipping or cracking
• Jaw disorders like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems
• Chronic headaches or facial pain
• Damage to dental work (fillings, crowns)

Long-term outlook

With proper care, most people can protect their teeth and manage symptoms. Teeth grinding often improves with age, especially in children.

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