Sleep-related movement disorders
Sleep Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
Clenching or grinding your teeth during sleep, which can cause jaw pain, headaches and dental damage. It is often linked to stress and sleep apnea.
Overview
Sleep bruxism is repetitive jaw muscle activity during sleep that causes clenching or grinding of the teeth. Grinding can be loud enough to wake a bed partner, and many people only find out when a partner or dentist notices.
Mild bruxism may cause no problems, but frequent grinding can wear down and crack teeth, damage fillings and crowns, and cause jaw muscle pain, headaches and problems with the jaw joint.
Bruxism episodes are often linked to brief arousals from sleep. Stress, alcohol, smoking, caffeine, some medicines and obstructive sleep apnea are associated with it, so a sleep evaluation can be worthwhile if you also snore or feel unrefreshed.
A systematic review found that about 13% of adults report frequent sleep bruxism, with grinding less common in older age.
Common symptoms
- Grinding or clenching sounds during sleep
- Worn, flattened, chipped or loose teeth
- Jaw pain, tightness or fatigue on waking
- Dull morning headache around the temples
- Tooth sensitivity
- Earache-like pain without an ear problem
- Damage to the inside of the cheek
Causes and risk factors
- Stress and anxiety
- Obstructive sleep apnea and snoring
- Alcohol, caffeine and smoking
- Some antidepressants, particularly SSRIs, and stimulants
- Family history
- Other conditions such as gastro-oesophageal reflux
How it is diagnosed
Most bruxism is identified by a dentist from tooth wear and jaw muscle findings, together with reports from a bed partner. A sleep study with jaw muscle and audio-video recording can confirm it and check for sleep apnea, but is usually reserved for cases where another sleep disorder is suspected.
Treatment options
Occlusal splint or night guard
A custom-fitted mouthguard from a dentist protects teeth from damage, although it does not stop the grinding itself.
Treating sleep apnea
Managing coexisting OSA may reduce bruxism in some people.
Stress management
Relaxation, cognitive behavioural approaches and good sleep habits can help.
Medication review
Adjusting medicines that may contribute, under medical supervision.
Dental repair
Restoring damaged teeth once grinding is controlled.
What you can do yourself
- Limit caffeine and alcohol, especially in the evening
- Stop smoking
- Practise relaxation before bed
- Avoid chewing gum and hard foods if your jaw is sore
- Apply warmth to sore jaw muscles
- Notice and relax daytime clenching
When to see a doctor
- Your teeth are worn, chipped or sensitive
- You wake with jaw pain or headaches
- Your jaw clicks, locks or is hard to open
- You also snore, gasp or feel unrefreshed
Frequently asked questions
Does a night guard stop grinding?
A night guard mainly protects your teeth from damage. It usually does not stop the muscle activity itself, but it can reduce tooth wear and sometimes jaw pain.
Is teeth grinding linked to sleep apnea?
Bruxism is associated with obstructive sleep apnea in some people, and both are linked to brief arousals from sleep. If you grind and also snore or feel unrefreshed, ask about a sleep evaluation.
Can stress cause teeth grinding?
Yes. Stress and anxiety are among the most common associated factors. Stress management and relaxation techniques may help.
Do children grind their teeth?
Grinding is common in children and often outgrown. Mention it to your child's dentist, especially if there is tooth wear, pain or snoring.
Sources
This page is general information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. Read our medical disclaimer.