EasyCare dental guides · Teeth grinding
Teeth grinding at night: signs and what to do
A sore jaw in the morning or worn tooth edges can raise questions about grinding. Learn what the signs mean, what a dentist can check and when protection may help.
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The short answer: Bruxism means grinding or clenching your teeth while awake or asleep. Some people have no symptoms. A night guard may protect teeth when needed, but it does not necessarily stop grinding or treat an underlying sleep or jaw problem.
Understand the signs
How would I know if I grind my teeth?
You may hear it from someone who sleeps nearby, or notice a tight jaw on waking. Other clues include flattened or chipped tooth edges, sensitivity, repeated damage to fillings, morning headaches or tired jaw muscles. These signs are not a diagnosis by themselves: tooth wear, pain and headaches can have other causes.
While you are asleep
Sleep bruxism happens without conscious control. Your dentist may ask about sleep, snoring, medicines and morning symptoms, and examine your teeth and jaw.
While you are awake
Some people clench when concentrating or under stress. Noticing when your teeth touch outside meals may help you discuss the pattern with your dentist.
Stress can contribute, but it is not the only possible factor. Alcohol, caffeine, some medicines and sleep problems may be relevant. Tell your dentist about symptoms rather than assuming a single cause.
Before choosing a solution
What does a dentist check?
A dentist can look for patterns of wear, cracks, damaged restorations and jaw muscle tenderness, then consider your symptoms and medical history. The examination also helps distinguish grinding from other reasons for tooth sensitivity or pain. A sleep study is not routine for everyone; if snoring, breathing pauses or marked daytime sleepiness suggest a sleep disorder, your dentist or doctor may discuss further assessment.
Does every person who grinds need treatment?
No. Mild grinding may cause little harm. The decision depends on symptoms, damage and contributing factors. If you have a cracked tooth, sudden pain or new swelling, seek an assessment of that problem promptly; see our emergency dental care information.
Protection and limits
Would a night guard help, and what would it not do?
A dentist may recommend a fitted occlusal splint, also called a night guard, to separate the teeth and reduce wear from grinding or clenching. It can help protect teeth and restorations, but it is not a cure for the habit and cannot replace assessment of a painful tooth, jaw symptoms or possible sleep apnoea. A grinding splint is different from a mouthguard made for sport.
Custom or shop-bought?
A shop-bought guard may fit differently and may feel bulky. A custom splint is planned around your mouth and reviewed for fit. Neither should be chosen on a symptom alone; ask your dentist which option, if any, suits your teeth and bite.
How long would I wear it?
There is no fixed duration for everyone. Your dentist can review tooth wear, symptoms and fit over time. Bring the appliance to appointments, especially after new dental work or if it becomes loose or uncomfortable.
Cleaning instructions depend on the appliance. Generally, use cool water and a soft brush with mild liquid soap, allow it to dry and keep it in its case. Avoid hot water, which may distort the fit, and follow the instructions given with your own splint.
Other useful questions
Can it help snoring? Are there other approaches?
A standard grinding guard should not be presented as a treatment for snoring or sleep apnoea. Devices for sleep-disordered breathing are different and require appropriate medical and dental assessment. Depending on the cause and severity of grinding, care may also include habit awareness, stress support, sleep or medical assessment, and repair of damaged teeth. Your dentist can help decide which concerns need attention first.
Further reading: healthdirect on teeth grinding and the Australian Dental Association's patient guide. This information cannot diagnose your individual symptoms.
