Note: This article is for general information purposes and does not replace individual dental advice.
Teeth grinding (bruxism) is a widespread problem that often goes unnoticed. According to estimates, around one in five adults grinds their teeth regularly – usually at night during sleep. The consequences can range from tooth damage and jaw pain to chronic headaches. With the right treatment, the consequences can usually be limited well.
What is teeth grinding?
Bruxism refers to the unconscious, often rhythmic clenching or grinding of the teeth. A distinction is made between:
- Sleep bruxism: Teeth grinding or jaw clenching at night during sleep. The form that is harder to control, because it happens unconsciously
- Awake bruxism: Teeth grinding or jaw clenching during the day, often in stressful situations or during intense concentration
When grinding, forces act on the teeth that are many times greater than normal chewing force. This enormous strain can cause considerable damage to the teeth, jaw joints and chewing muscles.
Causes of teeth grinding
- Stress and psychological strain: Stress and tension are considered important factors
- Tooth position: A malocclusion was formerly regarded as a cause; according to current knowledge, bruxism is controlled centrally and is not triggered by the position of the teeth
- Sleep disorders: Bruxism often occurs in connection with sleep apnoea or restless sleep
- Medication: Certain antidepressants and stimulants can promote bruxism
- Stimulants: High consumption of caffeine, alcohol or nicotine can intensify teeth grinding
- Genetic predisposition: Bruxism occurs more frequently in some families
Symptoms and consequences of bruxism
Typical signs
- Jaw pain or tension, especially in the morning after waking up
- Headaches – above all tension headaches and pain in the temples
- Worn, flattened or shortened tooth surfaces
- Sensitive teeth due to loss of the enamel layer
- Cracks or fractures in the tooth enamel
- Clicking or grating in the jaw joint
- Restricted mouth opening
- Tense chewing muscles that feel hardened
- Imprints of the teeth on the side of the tongue or the inside of the cheeks
Long-term consequences
Untreated bruxism can lead to serious damage:
- Loss of tooth substance: The enamel is worn away, teeth become shorter and more sensitive
- Tooth fractures: Teeth, fillings or crowns can break
- TMD (temporomandibular disorder): Chronic jaw joint problems with wide-ranging symptoms
- Gum recession: The overloading can contribute to receding gums
- Tinnitus: Tension in the chewing muscles can cause ringing in the ears
Treatment of teeth grinding
Occlusal splint (grinding splint)
The most important immediate measure is an individually made occlusal splint. It is worn at night, protects the teeth from further wear and relieves the jaw joints. At our practice, the splint is made to a precise fit in our in-house dental laboratory. Read more about TMD treatment and the grinding splint.
Physiotherapy
Targeted exercises and manual therapy can loosen tense chewing muscles and relieve the jaw joints. We work together with specialised physiotherapists where necessary.
Stress management
As stress is an important trigger, reducing stress is an important part of treatment:
- Progressive muscle relaxation according to Jacobson
- Mindfulness exercises and meditation
- Regular exercise and sport
- Conscious jaw relaxation during the day: lips closed, teeth apart, tip of the tongue on the palate
Dental measures
If tooth damage has already occurred, it can be treated:
- Fillings for worn tooth surfaces
- Crowns for severely damaged teeth
- All-ceramic restorations to rebuild the chewing surfaces
Exercises against teeth grinding
You can do these simple exercises every day:
- Jaw loosening: Place the tip of your tongue on the palate directly behind the upper front teeth. Slowly open and close your mouth 10 times without bringing your teeth together
- Applying warmth: Place a warm cloth on the jaw muscles (at the side, in front of the ears) and gently massage the area with circular movements
- Conscious release: Set an alarm several times a day. At that moment, check: are my teeth clenched? If so, consciously release the contact
When to see a dentist
See a dentist if you:
- Frequently wake up in the morning with jaw pain or headaches
- Notice worn, sensitive or broken teeth
- Have clicking or pain in the jaw joint
- Have a partner who has noticed you grinding your teeth at night
At our dental practice in Düsseldorf, we diagnose bruxism at an early stage and draw up an individual treatment plan. Make an appointment on 0211 – 497 67 69.
This article is for general information purposes and does not replace professional dental advice. If you have symptoms, please contact your dentist.
