The Silent Habit You Might Not Notice
Most people who grind their teeth at night have no idea they are doing it until a partner mentions hearing the grinding or clenching sounds while they sleep. At first, it may seem harmless or even funny, but dentists warn that teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is more than just a noisy nighttime habit. Over time, it can cause serious damage to your teeth, your jaw, and even your overall health.
According to the Mayo Clinic, bruxism is common and often linked to stress, sleep disorders, or misaligned teeth. While occasional grinding may not be harmful, chronic grinding can wear down enamel, break fillings, or lead to gum recession.
Why People Grind Their Teeth
There are many reasons people grind their teeth, and often more than one factor plays a role. Stress and anxiety are major triggers, as clenching is the body’s way of releasing tension. Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea can also increase the risk. In some cases, misaligned teeth or bite problems contribute to grinding, and even certain medications have been linked to bruxism.
Signs You Might Be Grinding at Night
Even if you never hear yourself grind, your body often shows the signs in the morning. Look out for:
- Jaw pain or stiffness when you wake up
- Headaches near your temples
- Teeth that look worn or chipped
- Increased tooth sensitivity when eating or drinking
- Disturbed sleep or fatigue in the morning
The American Dental Association notes that bruxism often goes undiagnosed until a dentist notices worn enamel or cracks during an exam.
Why Ignoring It Is Risky
Bruxism is not just about noise or discomfort. If left untreated, it can:
- Wear down enamel permanently
- Cause cracks, chips, or broken fillings
- Lead to receding gums or tooth loss
- Trigger chronic jaw pain and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
Over time, untreated grinding may require costly dental repairs such as crowns, implants, or orthodontic treatment. Addressing the issue early is always easier and less expensive.
What You Can Do About Grinding
The first step is to talk to your dentist. They can confirm whether you are grinding and assess any damage. In some cases, stress management, better sleep hygiene, or addressing bite alignment can help reduce the problem.
One of the most effective solutions is a custom night guard, which creates a barrier between your upper and lower teeth to absorb pressure. A dentist’s night guard often costs $500 or more because of office visits and lab fees, but Remi’s Custom Night Guard offers the same lab-quality protection for a fraction of the price.
Building Your Own Routine Against Grinding
Treating bruxism often means combining small lifestyle changes with protective tools. You can build your own plan by considering:
Stress management: Try meditation, gentle exercise, or journaling before bed.
Sleep hygiene: Limit caffeine and screen time in the evening to reduce nighttime tension.
Dental protection: Wear a night guard consistently to prevent enamel damage.
Professional support: Schedule regular dental visits so your dentist can monitor changes and repair small issues before they worsen.
If your partner says you grind your teeth, it is something to take seriously. Bruxism can cause permanent damage if ignored, but with the right care (from stress reduction to wearing a custom night guard), you can protect your teeth, reduce discomfort, and sleep better.
Remi’s Custom Night Guard provides dentist-quality protection at home, making it easier to address grinding before it becomes a more significant issue.
