As a general and family dentist here at Northwest Dental Group in Arlington Heights, I often see patients who have no idea they’re grinding their teeth at night until I point out the signs during an exam. This condition, known as bruxism, can cause more harm than you might think. It doesn’t just wear down teeth, it can lead to jaw pain, headaches, tooth fractures, gum recession, and even long-term damage to your bite. The problem is that most people grind their teeth unconsciously while they sleep, so they aren’t aware of it until the damage has already started.
When I diagnose nighttime teeth grinding, it’s usually because I notice certain patterns of wear on the enamel or hear about symptoms that line up with bruxism. Addressing the issue early can protect your teeth, reduce discomfort, and prevent costly restorative work in the future. Grinding may seem like a small problem, but the long-term consequences can be serious if it’s left untreated.
Nighttime teeth grinding exerts a tremendous amount of pressure on your teeth, often more force than you would ever use when chewing food. Over time, this can cause your enamel to wear away, making your teeth more sensitive and prone to cavities. Severe grinding can cause teeth to crack, chip, or become loose, sometimes requiring crowns, fillings, or even extractions.
It’s not just the teeth that are affected. Your jaw joints and muscles absorb this pressure, which can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Patients often report morning jaw soreness, headaches, or even ear pain, which are all signs that the muscles and joints have been under strain during the night.
Bruxism can have several triggers. One of the most common is stress or anxiety, which can cause the muscles in your jaw to tense while you sleep. Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea can also contribute to grinding. In some cases, misaligned teeth or an improper bite put uneven pressure on the teeth, leading the jaw to clench at night. Certain medications and lifestyle factors, like excessive caffeine or alcohol, can increase the likelihood of grinding as well.
At Northwest Dental Group, I start by carefully examining your teeth for wear patterns, cracks, or enamel loss. I’ll also ask about symptoms like morning headaches or jaw tightness. In some cases, a partner may report hearing grinding sounds at night.
If I confirm bruxism, one of the most effective treatments is a custom-made night guard. This is a clear, durable appliance that fits over your teeth and absorbs the forces of grinding while you sleep. Unlike over-the-counter versions, a custom guard is molded to your bite for maximum comfort and protection.
I also work with patients on reducing stress, improving sleep habits, and addressing bite issues when needed. If grinding is linked to a sleep disorder, I may recommend a medical evaluation to address the root cause.
Teeth grinding doesn’t go away on its own in most cases. The longer it continues, the greater the risk of irreversible tooth damage. Restoring worn or broken teeth can be expensive and time-consuming, but preventing the damage with a night guard is relatively simple. Early treatment also helps prevent jaw pain and TMJ complications that can be difficult to resolve once they become chronic.
If you suspect you might be grinding your teeth, or if you’re unsure but have symptoms like jaw soreness or headaches, don’t wait until your next cleaning. The sooner we identify the problem, the better chance we have of protecting your smile for the long term.
Most people find out they grind their teeth after a dental exam. Common signs include worn or flattened teeth, cracks, chips, and increased tooth sensitivity. Other indicators are jaw soreness, headaches upon waking, and comments from a sleep partner who hears grinding sounds.
Yes. Stress and anxiety are among the leading causes of nighttime grinding. When your body is tense, your jaw muscles can contract involuntarily during sleep, leading to clenching and grinding. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, or counseling can help reduce bruxism.
A night guard won’t stop the grinding itself, but it will protect your teeth and reduce strain on your jaw muscles and joints. It acts as a cushion, absorbing the pressure and preventing further wear or fractures.
Bruxism can be associated with sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. It can also be related to certain neurological conditions or the side effects of some medications. If your grinding is severe or has no obvious cause, further evaluation may be needed.
Yes, children can grind their teeth, especially during growth phases or when baby teeth are being replaced by permanent teeth. In most cases, they outgrow the habit, but if it persists, it should be evaluated by a dentist.
Over-the-counter guards provide some protection but may not fit as securely or comfortably as a custom-made guard from your dentist. Poorly fitting guards can shift during the night, offer less protection, and even cause bite changes over time.
Ignoring bruxism can lead to severe tooth wear, fractures, gum recession, and TMJ disorders. Over time, this damage may require extensive restorative dentistry such as crowns, bridges, or implants.
If you think you may be grinding your teeth at night, I can help you confirm the diagnosis and protect your smile before more damage occurs. At Northwest Dental Group, we provide comprehensive evaluations and custom solutions to keep your teeth healthy and strong.
Contact our Arlington Heights dental bruxism dentist at Northwest Dental Group by calling 847-577-4444 to schedule your visit. We proudly serve patients in Arlington Heights, Rolling Meadows, Palatine, Mount Prospect, and Buffalo Grove, Illinois.
