Do you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or tooth sensitivity? You might be suffering from sleep bruxism—a condition where you grind or clench your teeth while you sleep.

Bruxism often goes unnoticed because it happens during the night, but its effects can be far-reaching. It’s a common cause of TMJ disorders, damaged teeth, facial pain, and even disrupted sleep. In some cases, it can also be linked to snoring or sleep apnea.

If you’re unsure whether you’re grinding your teeth at night, here are some telltale signs to watch for:

9 Common Symptoms of Bruxism

1. Sore Jaw or Facial Muscles: Discomfort in your cheeks, jawline, or neck may point to overnight clenching.
2. Pain That Feels Like an Earache (Without an Actual Infection): Bruxism pain often radiates near the ear, even though it isn’t caused by an ear issue.
3. Frequent Morning Headaches or Temple Pain: Dull, tension-type headaches in the temples are a classic bruxism symptom.
4. Jaw Clicking, Locking, or Limited Movement: These can signal jaw strain or early TMJ dysfunction—often worsened by bruxism.
5. Chipped, Cracked, or Worn-Down Teeth: Grinding places excessive pressure on your enamel, leading to damage over time.
6. Tooth Sensitivity or Unexplained Pain: Enamel wear and gum recession from grinding can make teeth more sensitive.
7. Tightness or Fatigue in Your Jaw Muscles: You might notice it when chewing or talking—especially early in the day.
8. Cheek Biting or Inner Mouth Damage: Repeated trauma from clenching can cause scarring or raw spots inside the cheeks.
9. Interrupted or Poor-Quality Sleep: Grinding is often linked to sleep disturbances, snoring, or even sleep apnea.

What to Do If You Think You Have Sleep Bruxism

If you’re experiencing several of the symptoms above, it’s time to get ahead of the issue. At The Dentistry Collective in Rancho Bernardo, we offer comprehensive evaluations for bruxism and TMJ disorders—including advanced imaging, customized nightguards, and treatment plans that protect your teeth and improve your sleep quality.

Early diagnosis is key to avoiding long-term complications like cracked teeth, jaw joint damage, or chronic headaches.

Schedule a Bruxism Consultation Today

Don’t let nighttime teeth grinding affect your daily life. Let our experienced team help you find relief and preserve your smile with proactive, personalized care.

📞 Call us at 858-451-2555
📍 Visit our Rancho Bernardo dental studio in North County San Diego
🌐 Book online or learn more