Early Signs of Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is more common than many people realize. It often happens at night, when you may not even be aware of it, but it can also occur during the day under stress. While an occasional clench isn’t usually a problem, frequent grinding can wear down teeth, strain your jaw, and affect your overall oral health. At Vero Dental in Denver, Dr. Giuseffi and Dr. Johnson help patients spot the early signs before more serious damage develops.

Worn or Flattened Teeth

One of the clearest early signs is changes to the surface of your teeth. Grinding can cause teeth to look flatter, shorter, or more worn down than usual. If left untreated, enamel loss can make teeth sensitive and more prone to cavities. Over time, this kind of wear can even change the way your bite feels.

Jaw Soreness or Tightness

Do you wake up with sore muscles along your jaw or notice tension by the end of the day? That discomfort may be your jaw working overtime from grinding. Many patients describe it as a dull ache or a feeling of stiffness when opening and closing their mouths. Over time, this strain can contribute to TMJ issues, frequent headaches, and difficulty chewing comfortably.

Morning Headaches

Frequent headaches, especially in the morning, can also signal bruxism. The constant clenching puts stress on the muscles around your temples, leading to that familiar dull ache. Some people mistake these headaches for sinus pressure or tension, but if they occur often alongside jaw discomfort, teeth grinding could be the underlying cause.

Chipped or Cracked Teeth

Grinding exerts a surprising amount of force—sometimes strong enough to chip or crack a tooth. Even small cracks weaken teeth and create opportunities for bacteria to enter, increasing the risk of decay or infection. Left unchecked, this can lead to more extensive treatments like crowns or even root canals.

Increased Tooth Sensitivity

As enamel wears away, teeth may become more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods. That’s because the protective layer is thinning, exposing the underlying dentin. If you suddenly find yourself wincing when sipping ice water or enjoying a dessert, bruxism could be to blame. Sensitivity that seems to worsen over time is especially worth mentioning at your next dental visit.

Lifestyle Factors That Play a Role

Bruxism doesn’t always come out of nowhere—certain habits and lifestyle factors make it more likely. Stress and anxiety are common triggers, especially for nighttime grinding. Caffeine and alcohol can also make bruxism worse, since they affect how muscles and sleep cycles function. Poor sleep quality, untreated sleep apnea, and even certain medications can increase the chances of grinding. Identifying and addressing these triggers alongside dental treatment often brings the best results.

Teeth Grinding Care at Vero Dental in Denver, CO

The earlier bruxism is identified, the easier it is to prevent lasting damage. At Vero Dental, Dr. Giuseffi and Dr. Johnson provide custom nightguards and other treatment options to protect your teeth and jaw from grinding. If you’ve noticed any of these early signs, call our Denver office or schedule a consultation online. Addressing teeth grinding early can help you protect your smile for years to come.

Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

Categorized in: Bruxism, Dental Tips