Are You a Nighttime Tooth Grinder? Here's How To Tell—And What to Do About It
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a common condition that often goes unnoticed because it typically occurs during sleep. Many patients are unaware it’s happening until signs of damage begin to appear — sometimes years later.
Persistent grinding places excessive forces on teeth, dental restorations, jaw joints, and the muscles of the face and neck. Over time, this can contribute to tooth wear, fractures, jaw discomfort, headaches, and changes in bite function. Left unaddressed, bruxism can quietly undermine otherwise healthy teeth.
For a clear, accessible overview of how teeth grinding occurs during sleep — and why it’s difficult to recognize without professional evaluation — this article provides a helpful explanation:
Reviewed and updated January 2026