It can be difficult to know if you grind your teeth at night on your own since it happens during sleep, but there are several signs to look for that may indicate you do:
- Waking up with jaw pain, headaches, or soreness in your temples is a common symptom. The jaw muscles work hard all night during grinding, causing discomfort.
- Tooth sensitivity or pain from worn-down enamel due to grinding can make your teeth more sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.
- Worn, flattened, chipped, or cracked teeth are visible signs of grinding that a dentist can identify.
- Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw (temporomandibular joint) when opening or chewing may be from extra stress caused by grinding.
- A bed partner may hear loud grinding or clenching noises during the night and inform you.
- Sometimes jaw muscle enlargement, earaches, or tinnitus (ringing in ears) are associated symptoms.
- You may notice gum recession or other dental changes due to the pressure from grinding.
If any of these signs or symptoms are present, it is best to see a dentist for an evaluation. The dentist can confirm whether you have bruxism (teeth grinding) and recommend treatments such as a custom night guard, stress reduction techniques, or other options to protect your teeth and jaw.
In some cases, a sleep study may be needed for a definitive diagnosis.
In summary, common indicators of grinding your teeth at night include waking with jaw pain or headaches, tooth sensitivity, visible wear on teeth, jaw clicking, and noises heard by others during sleep. Visiting a dentist is the best way to confirm and manage the condition.
