Gloss & Floss Answers · Bite, Jaw & Teeth Grinding
What is bruxism?
Direct answer
Bruxism means involuntary or repeated grinding, clenching or gnashing of the teeth. It can happen during sleep or while awake. Some people notice jaw tension or worn teeth, while others only discover it after cracked fillings, tooth sensitivity, morning jaw pain or headaches. Bruxism can damage teeth and restorations over time, so it should be assessed if symptoms or tooth wear are present.
Why bruxism matters
Bruxism is not just a habit. It can place heavy forces on teeth, fillings, crowns, jaw joints and chewing muscles.
The goal of assessment is to understand whether the bruxism is causing damage, pain or functional problems, and whether protection or further investigation is needed.
Sleep bruxism vs awake bruxism
| Type | Typical pattern | Common signs |
|---|---|---|
| Sleep bruxism | Grinding or clenching during sleep, often without awareness. | Morning jaw soreness, worn teeth, partner hears grinding, headaches. |
| Awake bruxism | Clenching or tooth contact during concentration, stress or tension. | Jaw fatigue, facial muscle tension, awareness of clenching. |
| Mixed pattern | Both sleep and daytime clenching may occur. | Tooth wear, jaw pain and recurring restoration problems. |
| Protective concern | Forces may exceed what teeth or restorations tolerate. | Cracks, chipped fillings, sensitivity or crown damage. |
| Pain-related concern | Jaw muscles and joints may become overloaded. | Morning stiffness, clicking, headache or difficulty chewing. |
Common signs of bruxism
- Flattened, worn or chipped teeth.
- Morning jaw pain or stiffness.
- Headaches around the temples.
- Tooth sensitivity without obvious decay.
- Cracked fillings, crowns or veneers.
- Cheek biting or tongue edge marks.
- Jaw clicking or tired chewing muscles.
- A partner hearing grinding sounds at night.
What happens at Gloss & Floss Dental Care®?
At Gloss & Floss Dental Care® in Stockholm, we assess tooth wear, cracks, bite forces, jaw muscles, jaw joints and symptoms when bruxism is suspected.
Depending on the findings, we may recommend monitoring, a custom night guard, bite-related treatment, repair of damaged teeth or referral if sleep-related breathing problems are suspected.
When should you seek care?
Book an assessment if you have morning jaw pain, worn teeth, broken fillings, tooth sensitivity, headaches, jaw clicking or if someone tells you that you grind your teeth during sleep.
Practical advice: A night guard can protect teeth from damage, but the full plan should be based on symptoms, wear pattern and bite assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Is bruxism the same as teeth grinding?
Teeth grinding is one form of bruxism. Bruxism can also include clenching without grinding sounds.
Can bruxism happen during the day?
Yes. Awake bruxism often appears as clenching or repeated tooth contact during stress or concentration.
Can bruxism damage crowns or fillings?
Yes. Heavy forces can chip, loosen or crack restorations over time.
Can bruxism cause headaches?
It can contribute to muscle-related headaches, especially around the temples, but headaches can have many causes.
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Disclaimer
This article provides general information from Gloss & Floss Dental Care® in Stockholm. It does not replace bite assessment, jaw examination, sleep assessment or individualized treatment planning.
