Teeth Clenching & Grinding at Night

Teeth clenching and grinding at night, known as sleep bruxism, affects millions of people. Many TMJ symptoms are directly linked to bruxism, leading to jaw pain, headaches, and damaged teeth. Some people even clench their teeth while awake.

Are You a Clencher or Grinder?

You may have sleep bruxism if you experience:

  • Jaw pain or facial pain
  • Jaw clicking or locking
  • Limited jaw movement
  • Changes in your bite
  • Headaches in your temples or face
  • Jaw stiffness and tightness
  • An overdeveloped, bulky jawline
  • Loose, worn-down, or fractured teeth
  • Neck pain or sore teeth upon waking

Why Do We Clench & Grind Our Teeth?

Bruxism has been around for centuries—historical records suggest even Galileo and an English king experienced it! Research shows that teeth grinding and clenching are linked to abnormal sleep patterns, similar to sleepwalking or night terrors.

Bruxism can happen every night or only occasionally, and its causes fall into two main categories:

Psychosocial Causes

  • Stress & anxiety
  • Fear & frustration
  • Poor social support
  • Personality factors

Medical Causes

  • Disrupted sleep patterns
  • Altered brain chemistry
  • Certain antidepressants & ADD/ADHD medications
  • Genetics
  • Alcohol & caffeine consumption
  • Nutritional deficiencies (calcium & magnesium)

How We Can Help

At Point Richmond Dental Studio, we offer proven treatments to help reduce the impact of teeth clenching and grinding while allowing your jaw muscles and TMJs to heal. Treatment options may include:

  • Custom oral appliances (orthotics & splints)
  • BOTOX® or other neurotoxin injections to relax overactive jaw muscles
  • Stress management & relaxation techniques
  • Lifestyle adjustments, including sleep hygiene improvements

Get Relief from Teeth Clenching & Grinding

If you’re experiencing TMJ pain or sleep bruxism, we’re here to help. Call Point Richmond Dental Studio at (510) 233-4470 to schedule an appointment today.