Sleep bruxism is a condition where a person grinds or clenches their teeth during sleep. It’s classified as a sleep-related movement disorder and can go unnoticed for years. The grinding is often involuntary and forceful, leading to tooth damage, jaw pain, and disrupted sleep.
Most people discover they grind their teeth only after symptoms arise or a partner hears the grinding noises at night.
Recognizing the signs of nighttime teeth grinding is the first step toward treatment. Look for:
Loud teeth grinding during sleep
Flattened or chipped teeth
Jaw pain, tightness, or locking
Morning headaches or temple pressure
Tooth sensitivity or unexplained damage
Sleep disruptions or fatigue
If these symptoms persist, it’s important to consult a dentist or sleep specialist.
Why do you grind your teeth at night? Multiple factors may contribute:
Stress and anxiety (the #1 cause)
Genetics – family history increases risk
Sleep apnea or irregular sleep patterns
Lifestyle habits: smoking, alcohol, caffeine
Certain medications like SSRIs or amphetamines
The root cause varies per individual, which is why a personalized diagnosis is key.
Untreated sleep bruxism can lead to:
Severe tooth wear or fractures
Chronic jaw disorders (like TMJ)
Disrupted sleep for both the patient and partner
Headaches, facial soreness, and tooth mobility
Dental restorations (crowns, implants) getting damaged
The longer the condition goes untreated, the greater the oral health risks.
Diagnosis often begins with a dental exam, where your dentist may check for:
Worn tooth enamel
Jaw tenderness
Damage to the inside of your cheeks
A sleep study (polysomnography) may also be recommended if sleep apnea is suspected.
Treatments depend on severity and cause, but may include:
Custom night guards to protect teeth
Stress management: mindfulness, CBT, or therapy
Lifestyle changes: reduce caffeine/alcohol
Medication adjustments (consult doctor)
Treating underlying sleep apnea
In some cases, botox injections or physical therapy may be used for muscle relaxation.
A: If left untreated, it can lead to serious dental damage and chronic jaw pain.
A: Yes, stress is a leading trigger, especially in people with high anxiety.
A: Yes, they’re one of the most common and effective treatments for protecting teeth.
See a dentist or sleep specialist if:
You wake up with jaw or facial pain
You suspect tooth damage from grinding
Your partner notices grinding noises
You have sleep apnea symptoms
Early diagnosis helps prevent long-term damage and improves sleep quality.
