Teeth grinding — clinically known as bruxism — is more common than most people realize. An estimated 8–10% of adults grind their teeth at night, and many don't know they're doing it until a dentist notices the signs during a routine exam. Left untreated, bruxism causes significant damage to teeth, jaw joints, and surrounding muscles. The good news: it is very treatable.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the involuntary clenching, grinding, or gnashing of teeth. It occurs most commonly during sleep (sleep bruxism) but can also occur during waking hours (awake bruxism). Sleep bruxism is classified as a sleep-related movement disorder and is often associated with other sleep disorders like sleep apnea. Awake bruxism is typically stress-related and involves clenching rather than grinding.
Signs and Symptoms of Teeth Grinding
Because sleep bruxism occurs unconsciously, many patients are unaware they grind their teeth until a dentist identifies the signs. Common symptoms include:
- Worn, flattened, chipped, or cracked teeth
- Increased tooth sensitivity (especially to cold)
- Jaw pain, soreness, or tightness — especially in the morning
- Headaches, particularly at the temples, upon waking
- Earaches (from jaw muscle tension, not an ear infection)
- Facial pain or fatigue
- Indentations on the side of the tongue
- A partner reporting grinding sounds during sleep
What Causes Teeth Grinding?
The exact cause of bruxism is not fully understood, but contributing factors include: stress and anxiety (the most common trigger for awake bruxism), sleep disorders (sleep apnea is strongly associated with sleep bruxism), certain medications (particularly SSRIs and stimulants), caffeine and alcohol consumption, an abnormal bite or missing teeth, and genetic factors (bruxism tends to run in families). Identifying and addressing contributing factors is an important part of treatment.
Treatment Options for Bruxism
The primary treatment for bruxism is a custom night guard — a hard acrylic appliance worn over the upper or lower teeth during sleep. The night guard creates a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing direct contact and distributing grinding forces evenly. A custom night guard from your dentist costs $300–$700 and is far superior to over-the-counter guards in terms of fit, comfort, and effectiveness. Additional treatments may include stress management techniques (therapy, relaxation exercises), physical therapy for jaw muscles, Botox injections to reduce muscle activity in severe cases, and treatment of underlying sleep apnea if present. Damaged teeth caused by bruxism may require restorative treatment (fillings, crowns, or veneers) once the grinding is controlled.
Bruxism Treatment at Churchville Dental Care
At Churchville Dental Care, we screen every patient for signs of bruxism during routine exams. If we identify wear patterns consistent with grinding, we will discuss your symptoms, assess the extent of damage, and recommend a custom night guard if appropriate. We take digital impressions for a precise fit and typically deliver the finished guard within 1–2 weeks. We serve patients with bruxism from Churchville, Bel Air, Aberdeen, Joppa, Edgewood, Forest Hill, and throughout Harford County, MD. Call (410) 838-1133 to schedule an evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can bruxism be cured?
Bruxism cannot always be permanently cured, but it can be effectively managed. A custom night guard protects teeth from further damage. Addressing contributing factors like stress and sleep apnea can significantly reduce grinding frequency and intensity.
Is a custom night guard worth it?
Yes — a custom night guard is one of the best investments in dental health you can make. It protects your teeth from wear that can cost thousands of dollars to repair. A $400 night guard can prevent $10,000+ in restorative dental work over a lifetime.
Can children grind their teeth?
Yes — bruxism is common in children, particularly during periods of tooth eruption and stress. Most children outgrow it by adolescence. If your child is grinding their teeth, mention it to your dentist at their next visit.
Does dental insurance cover night guards?
Coverage varies by plan. Some PPO plans cover custom night guards as a preventive benefit (typically 50–80%). Others classify them as an appliance and cover them differently. Churchville Dental Care will verify your benefits before fabricating your guard.