5 Signs You Might Be Grinding Your Teeth (and How to Stop)
By Dr. Vincent R. Marsh, DMD – Piedmont Smiles
Do you ever wake up with a sore jaw or a dull headache? You might be one of the millions of people who grind their teeth—often without even realizing it.
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that can affect both adults and children. It often happens during sleep, but some people also clench or grind their teeth when stressed or focused.
Here are 5 signs you may be grinding your teeth:
1. Morning Jaw Pain or Stiffness
If your jaw feels sore or tight when you wake up, it's a classic sign of nighttime grinding.
2. Frequent Headaches
Tension from jaw clenching can lead to dull headaches, especially around the temples.
3. Worn-Down or Chipped Teeth
Flattened or damaged teeth—especially in the back of the mouth—can be caused by excessive grinding.
4. Tooth Sensitivity
Grinding can wear down enamel, making teeth more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
5. Your Partner Hears It
Sometimes, your sleep partner may actually hear the grinding sounds while you're asleep—even if you don't feel it.
So, What Can You Do About It?
At Piedmont Smiles, we take bruxism seriously. Here are a few ways we help patients find relief:
Custom Nightguards: These protect your teeth while you sleep and reduce muscle tension.
Stress Management: Grinding is often linked to anxiety or stress, so lifestyle changes can help.
Botox for Jaw Clenching: In some cases, small amounts of Botox can relax the overactive muscles responsible for grinding.
Bite Adjustment: If your bite is misaligned, we may recommend minor adjustments to improve comfort and reduce grinding.
Don’t Ignore the Signs
Teeth grinding might seem harmless, but over time it can lead to serious dental issues—including cracked teeth, TMJ problems, and tooth loss. If you're experiencing any of these signs, schedule a consultation with us at Piedmont Smiles. Let’s protect your smile—day and night!