Stress can be a trigger especially for awake teeth clenching, but it’s not the only cause.
Teeth grinding (bruxism) is multifactorial and can be influenced by sleep arousals, medications, lifestyle habits, and your bite. A night guard won’t “cure” the habit, but it does protect your teeth so you don’t pay for it with chips and wear.
When stress is (and isn’t) the driver
- Awake bruxism: Emotions like stress and anxiety commonly contribute to daytime clenching/grinding (Mayo Clinic).
- Sleep bruxism: Nighttime grinding is often linked to brief sleep arousals and has recognized associations with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), so stress isn’t the only story here (Sleep Foundation). 
Signs your grinding is stress-related
- You notice jaw clenching during work, driving, or intense focus.
- Flare-ups track with big deadlines, life changes, or poor sleep.
- Symptoms calm down when you exercise, meditate, or sleep better.
What actually helps (beyond willpower)
- Protect your enamel at night. A custom-fitted guard cushions forces and prevents tooth-to-tooth wear while you sort out triggers. Try the Remi Custom Night Guard.
- Build a “low-tension” wind-down. Cut late caffeine and alcohol, keep screens dim, and add 5–10 minutes of breath work or a quick stretch before bed.
- Keep your guard clean (and dry). A fast daily clean keeps it fresh and comfortable—use Night Guard Cleaning + Teeth Whitening Foam and store it in a ventilated case.
- Ask about snoring or non-restorative sleep. If a bed partner notices snoring, pauses in breathing, or you wake unrefreshed, bring it up with your dentist/MD—treating sleep issues can reduce grinding intensity.
- Mind daytime clenching. Set a “jaw check” reminder: lips together, teeth apart, tongue resting gently on the palate.
Stress can play a big role, especially during the day, but nighttime grinding often ties to sleep patterns and other factors. Protect your teeth now with a comfortable guard, and chip away at triggers with small, repeatable habits.
