Gloss & Floss Answers · Bite, Jaw & Teeth Grinding
Why do I grind my teeth?
Direct answer
Teeth grinding can happen because of sleep bruxism, stress, jaw muscle tension, bite-related factors, sleep quality, alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, some medications or other health factors. Many people grind or clench without noticing it, especially during sleep. Signs can include worn teeth, morning jaw pain, headaches, tooth sensitivity, cracked fillings or a partner hearing grinding sounds.
Why grinding is not always conscious
Teeth grinding and clenching can occur while awake or during sleep. Sleep bruxism is often not under voluntary control, which is why many patients only notice symptoms afterwards.
The cause is often multifactorial. Stress may contribute, but it is not the only possible reason. A dental assessment helps identify damage, risk and protective options.
Common grinding clues
| Sign | What it can suggest | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Morning jaw soreness | Night-time clenching or grinding. | Jaw muscles, bite and sleep habits. |
| Worn tooth edges | Long-term tooth contact and friction. | Tooth wear pattern and enamel loss. |
| Cracked fillings or crowns | Heavy bite forces may be present. | Restoration strength and bite protection. |
| Headaches near temples | Jaw muscle tension can refer pain. | Muscle tenderness and clenching habits. |
| Tooth sensitivity | Wear, cracks or overload may expose sensitive areas. | Enamel, dentine and cracks. |
Possible contributing factors
- Stress or emotional tension.
- Sleep bruxism.
- Jaw muscle overactivity.
- Bite instability or dental changes.
- Alcohol, caffeine or nicotine use.
- Sleep disruption or snoring-related factors.
- Some medications.
- Pain, anxiety or lifestyle changes.
What happens at Gloss & Floss Dental Care®?
At Gloss & Floss Dental Care® in Stockholm, we check tooth wear, cracks, fillings, crowns, jaw muscles, bite contacts and symptoms when grinding is suspected.
Depending on the findings, we may discuss monitoring, bite adjustment, a night guard, repair of worn or cracked teeth, stress-related advice or referral if sleep-related breathing issues are suspected.
When should you seek care?
Book care if you wake with jaw pain, notice worn teeth, break fillings, have frequent headaches, feel tooth sensitivity or suspect night-time grinding.
Practical advice: A night guard can protect teeth from damage, but it does not always remove the cause of grinding. Diagnosis still matters.
Frequently asked questions
Can stress cause teeth grinding?
Stress can contribute, especially to clenching, but grinding often has several causes.
Can grinding damage teeth?
Yes. It can wear enamel, crack teeth, break fillings or crowns and contribute to sensitivity.
How do I know if I grind at night?
Common signs include morning jaw soreness, headaches, worn teeth, tooth sensitivity or a partner hearing grinding sounds.
Does a night guard stop grinding?
A night guard mainly protects teeth from force and wear. It may not stop the muscle activity completely.
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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 individual treatment planning.
