If you’ve ever caught yourself clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth — especially during stressful moments or while you sleep — you’re not alone. This condition, known as bruxism, is surprisingly common among Canadian adults. But what many people don’t realize is that teeth grinding can have serious consequences for your dental health over time.
In this article, we’ll explain how teeth grinding affects your mouth, the signs to watch for, and how your dentist can help protect your smile.
😬 What Is Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)?
Bruxism refers to the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often during sleep (sleep bruxism), but sometimes during waking hours (awake bruxism). It can be caused by:
- Stress or anxiety
- Sleep disorders
- Misaligned teeth or bite issues
- Certain medications
Many people aren’t even aware they grind their teeth until symptoms begin to show up — sometimes in the form of dental damage.
🦷 How Teeth Grinding Affects Your Dental Health
1. Worn-Down Enamel
Grinding puts excess pressure on your teeth, gradually wearing away the protective enamel. This leaves your teeth more vulnerable to cavities, sensitivity, and decay.
2. Chipped or Cracked Teeth
Over time, repeated grinding can lead to tiny fractures or larger chips. Damaged teeth may require fillings, crowns, or other restorations.
3. Increased Tooth Sensitivity
As enamel thins out, the inner layers of your teeth become exposed. You may notice discomfort when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods.
4. Jaw Pain and TMJ Issues
Clenching can strain the muscles and joints in your jaw, leading to facial pain, tension headaches, and TMJ dysfunction.
5. Receding Gums and Loose Teeth
In severe cases, grinding can cause gum recession or make teeth shift, loosen, or even fall out without treatment.
🔍 Common Signs You May Be Grinding Your Teeth
- Morning headaches or jaw soreness
- Tooth sensitivity with no visible decay
- Flattened, worn, or chipped teeth
- Clicking or popping in your jaw
- Fatigue or unrestful sleep
- Your partner hears grinding noises at night
If you notice these signs, it’s a good idea to bring them up at your next dental visit.
🛡️ How to Prevent Damage from Teeth Grinding
Your dentist may recommend one or more of the following:
- Custom night guard: A fitted appliance worn at night to cushion your teeth and protect against grinding.
- Stress management: Try mindfulness, therapy, or relaxation exercises to reduce anxiety triggers.
- Dental corrections: Orthodontic treatment or bite adjustments if alignment issues are a factor.
- Lifestyle changes: Cut down on caffeine, alcohol, and screen time before bed to improve your sleep quality.
💬 Final Thoughts
Teeth grinding may seem harmless — but over time, it can lead to enamel loss, jaw pain, and costly repairs. The good news? It’s very treatable. Early diagnosis and a personalized plan from your dental team can help protect your smile and relieve discomfort.
Worried about grinding your teeth? We can help.
Our dental team offers custom night guards and effective treatments to relieve jaw tension and safeguard your oral health. Book a consultation today and let’s take the pressure off — literally.