Waking up with a sore jaw, sensitive teeth, or frequent headaches? You may be grinding your teeth at night, a condition known as bruxism. At Pleasantville Smiles, Dr. Tiffany Sudre helps patients of all ages manage the effects of nighttime teeth grinding and prevent long-term damage. If you’re tired of waking up feeling worse than when you went to bed, keep reading to learn how to stop grinding your teeth and protect your smile.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the involuntary clenching or grinding of your teeth, often during sleep. Many people don’t realize they’re doing it until symptoms show up, or a dentist notices excessive wear on their teeth. While it can also occur during the day, nighttime bruxism is more common and often harder to detect without help.
Why It Matters
If left untreated, chronic grinding can lead to serious dental issues including:
- Worn enamel and chipped teeth
- Jaw pain or TMJ disorders
- Gum recession and tooth sensitivity
- Frequent headaches or facial tension
The sooner you recognize and address the signs, the easier it is to prevent long-term damage to your teeth and jaw.
Common Signs of Nighttime Teeth Grinding
1. Morning Jaw Soreness
If your jaw feels tight, achy, or stiff when you wake up, this is one of the most common signs of bruxism. Grinding puts excessive strain on the jaw muscles throughout the night, leading to morning discomfort.
2. Headaches or Earaches
Do you wake up with dull headaches near your temples or around your ears? Bruxism may be the hidden cause, especially if traditional treatments haven’t helped.
3. Damaged or Flattened Teeth
Grinding slowly wears down tooth surfaces. You may notice flattened teeth, chipped edges, or increased sensitivity as the enamel weakens.
4. Clicking or Popping in the Jaw
Repetitive clenching and grinding can cause stress on the TMJ (temporomandibular joint), leading to audible clicking or popping when you open and close your mouth.
What Causes Nighttime Teeth Grinding?
Understanding the root cause can help guide treatment. Common triggers for bruxism include:
- Stress and anxiety
- Sleep disorders, like sleep apnea
- Bite misalignment (malocclusion)
- Caffeine or alcohol consumption before bed
- Missing or crooked teeth
How to Stop Grinding Your Teeth at Night
1. Wear a Custom Night Guard
One of the most effective ways to prevent damage is to wear a custom-fitted night guard while sleeping. Dr. Tiffany Sudre designs personalized guards at Pleasantville Smiles to cushion your teeth and minimize grinding forces.
2. Reduce Stress Before Bed
Relaxation techniques can go a long way. Try deep breathing, meditation, or light yoga before bed to reduce nighttime muscle tension.
3. Avoid Stimulants in the Evening
Cut back on caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol after dinner
Ready to Stop Grinding and Start Sleeping Better?
Don’t let nighttime teeth grinding wear down your smile or disrupt your rest. At Pleasantville Smiles, Dr. Tiffany Sudre provides compassionate care and customized solutions to help you find relief. Whether you need a night guard, a bite adjustment, or simply expert guidance, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Call our Pleasantville, NY office today or schedule your consultation online to take the first step toward a healthier, more relaxed smile.