Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Causes, Symptoms & How Tooth Harmony Can Help Protect Your Smile
Do you ever wake up with jaw tension, headaches, or sore teeth? You might be grinding your teeth—often without even knowing it. Bruxism, the term for involuntary teeth grinding or clenching, affects many people and can cause serious wear and tear if left untreated.
At Tooth Harmony in Niagara Falls, we help patients identify and manage teeth grinding with practical dental solutions designed to protect your smile and improve comfort.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the habit of grinding, gnashing, or clenching teeth—most commonly during sleep, though it can also happen while awake during stress or focus.
While occasional grinding may not cause problems, frequent or severe bruxism can lead to:
Worn or flattened teeth
Enamel erosion
Jaw tightness or discomfort
Headaches or earaches
Increased tooth sensitivity
Cracked or fractured teeth
Gum recession or loosened teeth
Common Causes of Teeth Grinding
Bruxism doesn’t have one single cause, but common factors include:
Stress or anxiety
Sleep issues (such as snoring or sleep apnea)
Bite misalignment or missing teeth
Lifestyle habits like caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco use
Certain medications
At Tooth Harmony, we review your dental history and lifestyle factors to determine possible triggers and design a personalised care plan.
How Do I Know If I’m Grinding My Teeth?
Because grinding often happens at night, many people don’t realise they have bruxism until a dentist notices signs during an exam.
Clues you may be grinding your teeth:
Waking up with sore jaw muscles or headaches
Noticing flat, worn, or chipped teeth
Clicking or popping in your jaw joint
Heightened tooth sensitivity
A partner hearing grinding sounds while you sleep
If you’ve experienced any of these, booking a dental check-up can help confirm what’s happening.
How We Diagnose and Manage Bruxism at Tooth Harmony
During your visit, we will:
Examine your teeth for signs of wear
Review your jaw movement and bite alignment
Ask about any discomfort or habits that may contribute
Based on your needs, we may recommend:
Custom Night Guards
A custom-made night guard (occlusal splint) is one of the most effective ways to protect your teeth while sleeping. It:
Cushions enamel against grinding forces
Relieves jaw tension
Prevents further wear or damage
Our night guards are designed in-office for a precise, comfortable fit—far more reliable than store-bought versions.
Lifestyle Support and Stress Management
Since stress often plays a role, we may suggest:
Relaxation or mindfulness techniques
Gentle jaw stretches and warm compresses
Limiting caffeine or alcohol before bedtime
These strategies can complement your dental treatment for better long-term results.
Additional Treatments
In some cases, treatment may also include:
Adjustments to your bite or restorations
Referral to a sleep specialist if needed
Regular monitoring of your dental health
Book a Bruxism Assessment in Niagara Falls
If you think you may be grinding your teeth—or have noticed the symptoms above—Tooth Harmony can help. Our team will provide a clear diagnosis and practical solutions to protect your smile.
📍 Book your consultation today at our Niagara Falls dental office by visiting www.toothharmony.com or our social media accounts:
