How Long Does Teeth Grinding Pain Last?

Whether it’s due to stress, sleep patterns, or other health-related factors, more than half of Americans will grind their teeth at some point.

While most are typically unaffected by this habit, those affected can sometimes face excruciating pain. Unfortunately, this can keep them from eating, talking, and functioning well in their daily lives.

A painful episode can last anywhere from a few days or weeks at a time. It’s not uncommon for this condition, known as bruxism, to happen continuously until a dentist intervenes.

If you suspect any teeth or jaw pain you’re facing might be from grinding your teeth, then seeking a dental professional will be crucial to stopping the pain and further deterioration of your teeth.

How Will I Be Able To Know If I Grind My Teeth At Night?

It’s difficult to know what we do exactly when we sleep. While you may not be aware of it, there are still several signs and symptoms that can help you determine if you grind your teeth at night:

• Morning Discomfort: One of the telltale signs of nighttime teeth grinding is waking up with unexplained jaw pain, facial soreness, or headaches. If you frequently experience discomfort upon waking, it could be indicative of bruxism.
• Worn or Chipped Teeth: Regular grinding can lead to the gradual wear and tear of your tooth enamel, which may cause your teeth to appear flattened or even chipped. Dentists can often spot these signs during routine examinations.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Bruxism can expose the sensitive inner layers of your teeth, making them more susceptible to temperature changes or certain foods. If you notice increased tooth sensitivity without an apparent cause, it’s worth discussing with your dentist.
• Tight or Tired Jaw Muscles: If you occasionally notice that your jaw feels tense, tight, or fatigued, it could be due to clenching during sleep. This may also contribute to pain in your jaw joint, known as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
• Disrupted Sleep Patterns: If you share a bed with a partner, they might notice the sounds of grinding or clicking during the night. Additionally, you might awaken occasionally due to the noise or discomfort caused by grinding.
• Cheek or Tongue Damage: Bruxism can lead to inadvertent biting or damage to the insides of your cheeks and tongue. If you consistently notice these issues, it could be a sign of nighttime teeth grinding.

If you suspect that you may be grinding your teeth while asleep, it’s essential to address the issue to prevent potential dental complications. Your dentist can help diagnose bruxism and recommend appropriate treatment options to protect your teeth and oral health.

Underlying Causes of Teeth Grinding and Potential Solutions

Teeth grinding, or bruxism can have various underlying causes. Identifying these causes is crucial for effectively addressing the issue and preventing potential dental complications. Here are some common reasons for teeth grinding and potential dental treatments or solutions to resolve them:

1. Stress and Anxiety:

   Cause: Psychological stress and anxiety are often linked to bruxism, as the body’s natural response to stress can lead to clenching or grinding of the teeth.

   Solution: Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and therapy, can help alleviate bruxism caused by stress. In some cases, counseling or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be beneficial.

2. Misaligned Bite:

   Cause: An improper bite alignment, also known as malocclusion, can lead to bruxism as the jaw tries to find a comfortable position.

   Solution: Orthodontic treatment to correct the bite, such as braces or Invisalign, can help align the teeth and alleviate bruxism caused by malocclusion.

3. Sleep Disorders:

   Cause: Conditions like sleep apnea and snoring can contribute to bruxism, as the body attempts to open the airway by grinding the teeth.

   Solution: Treating the underlying sleep disorder, which may involve using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine or oral appliances, can help reduce teeth grinding.

4. Medications and Substances:

   Cause: Certain medications, such as antidepressants and stimulants, as well as excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption, can trigger bruxism.

   Solution: Adjusting medication dosages under the guidance of a healthcare professional and reducing intake of stimulants or depressants can help mitigate teeth grinding.

5. Lifestyle Factors:

   Cause: Lifestyle habits like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of bruxism.

   Solution: Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake can help reduce bruxism risk and improve overall oral health.

6. Occlusal Splints or Mouthguards:

   Solution: Dentists often recommend wearing an occlusal splint, night guard, or mouth guard, to create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth. This can protect the teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching and can be a great way to treat bruxism in a matter of days or weeks.

7. Muscle Relaxation Techniques:

   Solution: Learning relaxation techniques, such as jaw exercises, massages, and warm compresses, can help relax the muscles and reduce the urge to grind teeth.

8. Botox Injections:

   Solution: In some cases, dentists or medical professionals may use Botox injections to temporarily paralyze the jaw muscles responsible for grinding.

9. Psychological Interventions:

   Solution: For bruxism caused by stress or anxiety, psychological interventions like therapy and stress management techniques can be effective in reducing teeth grinding and preventing sleep disruption.

Schedule Your Free Evaluation

Remember, regular dental check-ups are essential for identifying and addressing teeth grinding, as well as other oral health concerns. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Naperville Commons Dental for a thorough evaluation.