Many people clench or grind their teeth during the day or while asleep without realising it, dental experts warn. The condition, known as bruxism, affects daily comfort, sleep quality and long-term oral health.
Dentists say you should take notice if, at least once a week, you feel soreness in your temples, face or jaw, experience pain when chewing or opening your mouth, or notice your jaw clicking, locking or getting stuck. Answering “yes” to any of these signs may indicate bruxism.
Teeth grinding and clenching are involuntary actions. The jaw muscles tighten and the lower jaw pushes forward, forcing the teeth together or rubbing them against each other. Around one in six people grind their teeth during sleep, while one in four do so while awake. Night-time grinding often produces a noticeable sound, which bed partners may detect first.
Occasional, mild grinding is usually harmless. However, frequent or forceful clenching can lead to worn or fractured teeth, jaw joint problems, muscle pain, headaches, ear pain and disrupted sleep. Over time, treatment can become costly.
Experts say bruxism is usually linked to a combination of physical, psychological and lifestyle factors. Stress, anxiety and depression increase the risk, as do some medications used to treat mental health conditions. High intake of caffeine, nicotine or alcohol, as well as poor or interrupted sleep, can also contribute.
There is a strong association between bruxism and sleep apnoea, a condition that repeatedly stops breathing during sleep. Reduced oxygen levels trigger stress hormones, increasing heart rate and causing muscle spasms that can worsen teeth grinding.
Dentists can often spot signs of bruxism during routine checks. These include chipped or heavily worn teeth, damaged fillings, receding gums and teeth that feel loose or have shifted position. White ridges inside the cheeks and scalloped edges on the tongue are also common indicators. In some cases, similar tooth wear may be linked to acid reflux, which softens enamel and accelerates damage.
Managing bruxism usually involves addressing both symptoms and underlying causes. Doctors may review medications and assess for conditions such as reflux, jaw arthritis or sleep apnoea. A sleep study may be recommended if breathing problems during sleep are suspected.
Physiotherapists specialising in jaw disorders can help relieve muscle tension, joint clicking and headaches through targeted exercises. Dentists may also prescribe a custom-made night guard to protect teeth and reduce strain on the jaw.
In more severe cases, botox injections may be considered to limit jaw muscle activity, although the treatment is costly, temporary and not effective for everyone.
Health professionals stress that while dental appliances and pain relief can manage damage, reducing stress and improving sleep habits are equally important. Cutting back on caffeine and alcohol, limiting screen use at night and creating a calm bedtime routine may help protect both sleep quality and long-term dental care.