Help, I Grind My Teeth! Understanding Bruxism
Dr Tristan Tinn
Founder & Clinical Director
Do you wake up with a sore jaw, headaches, or has your partner mentioned hearing grinding sounds while you sleep? You might be one of the many people who grind their teeth. This condition is called bruxism, and it affects around 8 to 10% of the UK population.
Key Takeaways
- •Bruxism (teeth grinding) can happen during sleep or while awake, and many people are unaware they do it
- •Common signs include jaw pain, morning headaches, worn teeth, and increased sensitivity
- •Stress is the most common trigger for daytime clenching. Sleep bruxism is often linked to sleep disorders
- •A custom night guard from your dentist (£100 to £400) is the most effective way to protect your teeth
- •Untreated bruxism can crack teeth, damage fillings, and cause TMJ disorders
- •Botox, physiotherapy, and stress management can all help reduce grinding
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the medical term for grinding, gnashing, or clenching your teeth. It can happen while you're awake (awake bruxism) or during sleep (sleep bruxism). Many people are completely unaware they do it until the damage becomes visible.
Signs You Might Be Grinding
- Waking with jaw pain, stiffness, or tiredness
- Morning headaches, especially around the temples
- Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Facial pain or earache
- Disrupted sleep (yours or your partner's)
- Indentations on your tongue from pressing against teeth
What Causes Teeth Grinding?
The exact cause of bruxism is not always clear, but it usually involves a combination of physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors. Here are the most common triggers.
- Stress and anxiety: The most common trigger for awake bruxism
- Sleep disorders: Sleep apnoea is strongly linked to sleep bruxism
- Lifestyle factors: Caffeine, alcohol, smoking, and recreational drugs
- Medications: Some antidepressants and other medications
- Bite problems: Misaligned teeth or an abnormal bite
Treatment Options for Bruxism
While there is no outright cure for bruxism, several effective treatments can protect your teeth and reduce grinding. Your dentist will recommend the best approach based on the severity of your case.
Night Guards (Splints)
A custom-made night guard worn during sleep protects your teeth from grinding damage. These are made from impressions of your teeth and are far more effective and comfortable than shop-bought alternatives. A custom guard typically costs £100 to £400 privately, or may be available under NHS Band 2 (£75.50).
Stress Management
If stress is a factor, addressing it can help reduce bruxism. Consider relaxation techniques, exercise, therapy, or lifestyle changes.
Botox Injections
For severe cases, Botox injections into the jaw muscles can reduce their strength and activity. Effects typically last 3-6 months.
TMJ Physiotherapy & Jaw Exercises
A specialist TMJ physiotherapist can work wonders for bruxism-related jaw pain. They'll assess how your jaw moves and teach you specific exercises to relax the muscles, improve mobility, and reduce tension. Simple jaw stretches and massage techniques done at home can make a real difference over time.
Soft Diet & Lifestyle Changes
When your jaw is flaring up, giving it a rest helps. Stick to softer foods for a few days. Avoid chewy steaks, crusty bread, and chewing gum. Cut food into smaller pieces to reduce the work your jaw has to do. Some people find that reducing caffeine and alcohol also helps, as both can increase muscle tension.
Don't ignore it: Untreated bruxism can lead to severe tooth wear, cracked teeth, TMJ disorders, and the need for extensive dental work. If you suspect you grind your teeth, see your dentist.
How Much Damage Can Bruxism Cause?
Left untreated, bruxism can cause serious and costly dental problems. The constant grinding wears down enamel, flattens the biting surfaces, and can crack or fracture teeth. Fillings and crowns can also break under the repeated pressure.
In severe cases, teeth can be worn down to stumps, requiring extensive restorative work. The jaw joint can also be affected, leading to TMJ disorders with chronic pain, clicking, and difficulty opening the mouth fully. This is why early treatment with a night guard is so important.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a night guard cost in the UK?
A custom-made night guard from a UK dentist typically costs £100 to £400 privately. Some NHS dentists provide them under Band 2 (£75.50) if deemed clinically necessary. Custom guards are far more effective than shop-bought alternatives, which cost £10 to £30 but offer poor fit and less protection.
Is bruxism linked to stress?
Stress and anxiety are the most common triggers for awake bruxism (daytime clenching). Sleep bruxism has a more complex set of causes including sleep disorders and medications. Many people notice their grinding gets worse during stressful periods.
Does Botox work for teeth grinding?
Botox injections into the masseter (jaw) muscles can be effective for severe bruxism. The injections reduce the strength of the jaw muscles, preventing them from clenching with as much force. Effects typically last 3 to 6 months. It is not available on the NHS and costs £200 to £500 per session.
Can children grind their teeth?
Yes, teeth grinding is common in children, particularly during sleep. It often occurs when baby teeth or permanent teeth are coming through. Most children grow out of it naturally. If it persists or causes visible wear, see a children's dentist.
Should I see a dentist or doctor for bruxism?
Start with your dentist. They can assess the wear on your teeth, check your jaw joint, and provide a custom night guard. If sleep apnoea is suspected, you may be referred for a sleep study. If stress is the main trigger, your GP can help with anxiety management alongside dental treatment.
Can bruxism cause headaches?
Yes. Bruxism is a common cause of tension headaches, particularly those felt around the temples upon waking. The repeated clenching strains the muscles around the jaw and skull. If you regularly wake with headaches, bruxism may be the cause.
Related Articles
Sources
- • NHS – Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- • Oral Health Foundation – Bruxism information
Last reviewed on 15 April 2026 by Dr Tristan Tinn