You wake up in the morning with a sore jaw. Maybe you also have a headache or notice that your teeth feel unusually sensitive.
Could nighttime grinding or clenching be part of the problem?
You may not know you’re grinding
One of the frustrating things about nighttime grinding—also called bruxism—is that it happens while you’re asleep.
Some people discover it because a partner hears grinding. Others only notice the effects.
Possible signs can include:
- Morning jaw soreness
- Headaches
- Tooth sensitivity
- Flattened or worn tooth surfaces
- Chipped or fractured teeth
- Jaw fatigue or discomfort
These symptoms can have other causes, so they don’t automatically mean that you grind your teeth.
Why does grinding matter?
Repeatedly putting excessive force on your teeth can contribute to wear and damage over time. Clenching can also place additional strain on the muscles and structures around the jaw.
If symptoms are recurring, understanding what may be causing them is an important first step.
How can a dentist help?
A dental examination can look for patterns of tooth wear, fractures and other signs that may be consistent with grinding or clenching. Your dentist can also assess your jaw and bite and consider your symptoms together with your dental history.
If grinding appears to be contributing to the problem, your dental team can discuss appropriate options based on your individual situation.
At Brilliant Dental Care in Bellevue, patients can have jaw discomfort, tooth sensitivity and other concerns evaluated as part of comprehensive dental care.
If you regularly wake up with a sore jaw or unexplained dental symptoms, contact Brilliant Dental Care to discuss your concerns.
