Many people who grind their teeth have no idea they’re doing it. Grinding (and its quieter cousin, clenching) mostly happens during sleep or unconsciously during stressful moments in the day. The first clue is often a partner hearing it at night, or a dentist noticing worn, flattened or cracked teeth at a check-up.
Grinding is called bruxism. Occasional grinding isn’t usually harmful, but regular grinding can wear teeth, crack fillings and cause jaw pain. Here’s how to recognise it and what can be done.
Signs you may be grinding or clenching
- Waking with a sore or tired jaw, or tight muscles at the sides of your face
- Morning headaches, especially at the temples
- Teeth that look flat, short or chipped at the edges
- Sensitive teeth from worn enamel
- Cracked teeth or fillings, or crowns that keep breaking
- Scalloped edges on the side of your tongue, or a white line on the inside of your cheeks
- Clicking or pain in the jaw joints
- A partner hearing grinding sounds at night
What causes it?
Bruxism usually has more than one contributing factor:
- Stress and anxiety, which commonly show up as clenching during the day and grinding at night
- Sleep disorders, particularly obstructive sleep apnoea and snoring
- Caffeine, alcohol and smoking, especially in the evening
- Some medications, including certain antidepressants
- Concentration habits, such as clenching while working, driving or exercising
In children, grinding is common and often stops on its own as adult teeth come through, but mention it at a check-up.
The damage grinding can do
Worn teeth
Grinding can wear enamel away far faster than normal chewing. Once enamel is gone it doesn’t grow back, and the softer dentine underneath wears even faster.
Cracks and fractures
The forces involved in grinding can be several times greater than normal chewing. Over time this causes cracks, particularly in back teeth with large fillings. A cracked tooth may need a crown or, if the crack reaches the nerve, root canal treatment.
Broken dental work
Fillings, crowns, veneers and implant crowns can chip or break under grinding forces, which is why protecting them matters after cosmetic or restorative work.
Jaw and muscle problems
Overworked jaw muscles can become sore and enlarged, and the jaw joints may click, lock or ache. These are known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
Receding gums and notches
Some research suggests heavy biting forces may contribute to small notches at the gum line, though tooth brushing technique also plays a role.
How a night splint helps
A custom night splint (occlusal splint) is a hard acrylic guard made to fit your upper or lower teeth precisely. Worn while you sleep, it:
- Takes the wear instead of your teeth
- Spreads biting forces more evenly
- Can help relax the jaw muscles and reduce morning soreness for many people
- Protects crowns, veneers and fillings
A splint doesn’t stop the urge to grind, but it prevents the damage. Custom splints are made from impressions or a digital scan of your teeth and adjusted so your bite is even. At Hornsby Dental, a custom splint starts from $720.
Why not a sports or pharmacy guard?
Soft, boil-and-bite guards are designed for impact, not grinding. Some people find they chew on soft guards, which can make clenching worse. A hard, custom-fitted splint is the usual recommendation for night grinding.
Things you can do yourself
- Notice daytime clenching. Your teeth should only touch when you swallow or chew. Practise “lips together, teeth apart, tongue resting on the roof of your mouth”.
- Cut back on evening caffeine and alcohol.
- Build a wind-down routine before bed to reduce stress.
- Avoid chewing gum and pens, which keep jaw muscles working.
- Apply warmth to sore jaw muscles and do gentle stretches recommended by your dentist or physiotherapist.
- Talk to your GP about snoring or daytime sleepiness, as sleep apnoea and grinding are linked.
When to see a dentist
Book a check-up if you notice any signs of grinding, if teeth or fillings keep chipping, or if your jaw is sore. Your dentist will assess the wear on your teeth, check your jaw joints and muscles, and recommend whether a splint would help. If your symptoms suggest a sleep disorder, we may suggest you see your GP.
Teeth grinding FAQs
How long does a splint last?
Many splints last several years. Bring yours to check-ups so we can check the fit and wear. Heavy grinders may wear through a splint faster, which is far better than wearing through teeth.
Will a splint feel strange?
Most people adjust within a week or two. It may feel bulky at first and you may produce more saliva for the first few nights.
How do I clean my splint?
Brush it gently with a soft brush and cool water each morning, let it air-dry and store it in its case. Avoid hot water, which can warp it.
Is a splint covered by my health fund?
Occlusal splints are often claimable under dental extras. Ask us for the item number to check your benefit.
Can Botox help?
Some people with severe muscle pain are treated with muscle relaxant injections by appropriately qualified practitioners. This is a separate discussion with your doctor or specialist, and a splint is still usually needed to protect the teeth.
Find out more about preventive dentistry in Hornsby.
Book a visit at Hornsby Dental
Hornsby Dental is at Suite 21, 14 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby, about three minutes’ walk from Hornsby Station, with free street parking nearby. We’re open Monday to Friday 9am–6pm and Saturday 8:30am–4pm. Book online or call (02) 8090 1100.
This article is general information only. It isn’t a substitute for advice from your dentist about your own mouth and health.