Many of us are teeth grinders and don’t even know it until the damage has been done. Studies show that nearly one in three adults grind or clench their teeth regularly. If this sounds like you, grinded teeth repair might be exactly what you need to restore your smile and alleviate unnecessary mouth pain. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent teeth grinding and help recognize symptoms when you see them. If you need a periodontist, we have offices in Salt Lake City and South Jordan and offer competitive prices! Our offices are conveniently located near Taylorsville, North Salt Lake, Bountiful, Sandy, Draper, and West Jordan.
What Is Teeth Grinding?
Grinding teeth, technically called bruxism, happens when you unconsciously clench or grind your teeth. Grinding can happen during the day when you’re stressed or trying hard to focus, or at night while you’re asleep. Nighttime grinding is especially tricky because you’re not even aware it’s happening.
Bruxism can affect anyone, though it’s definitely more common in adults under stress or with certain lifestyle habits. Interestingly, many people only discover they grind their teeth when a dentist points out wear patterns, chips, or cracks during a routine checkup. Because it can occur subtly or only during sleep, it’s not always obvious to you or the people you’re around the most.
Symptoms of Teeth Grinding
People with bruxism typically don’t notice most of these indicators right out of the gate, so it’s a good idea to be aware of the following:
- Flattened or worn teeth – Surfaces of teeth may look even or shorter than usual.
- Chipped or cracked enamel – Tiny fractures can develop over time from repeated grinding.
- Jaw soreness or tension – Muscles in the jaw or neck may feel tight or ache, especially in the morning.
- Headaches or ear pain – Pressure from clenching can radiate to the temples or ears.
- Increased tooth sensitivity – Enamel loss from grinding can make hot, cold, or sweet foods uncomfortable.
- Indentations on the tongue or inside cheeks – Grinding can press soft tissue against teeth.
- Unusual wear on dental work – Crowns, fillings, or veneers may show signs of extra stress.
What Causes Tooth Grinding
Stress and anxiety are some of the biggest contributors to teeth grinding and clenching. When you’re under a lot of stress, tension builds, and your jaw can clench without you even realizing it.
Most people aren’t aware that several different medications can also be largely at play. They affect the nervous system and contribute to grinding as well. Habits like excessively chewing gum, smoking, or drinking alcohol and caffeine can also increase the likelihood of grinding. And, of course, genetics play their part, meaning some people are naturally more prone to bruxism than others.
Teeth Grinding vs Clenching
Teeth grinding and clenching are related but not entirely the same. Grinding happens when your teeth slide against each other, often making a noticeable noise, especially at night. Clenching, on the other hand, is when your jaw muscles tighten and your teeth are pressed together without the sliding motion. You might clench during the day without realizing it, often when you’re focused, stressed, or frustrated. While grinding is usually more visible on your teeth, clenching can fly under the radar until a dentist notices signs of wear or tension in your jaw muscles.
Types of Treatment Options for Teeth Grinding
There are several different treatment options available if you’re a teeth grinder. Your dentist will be able to determine which restorative option is best for you after assessing the damage to your teeth. We’ve made a list of the most common and effective treatments below:
Porcelain veneers – These are thin shells bonded to the front of your teeth. They usually require minimal shaving of the enamel, though some prep is needed. Veneers are great for cosmetic improvements like chips, cracks, or uneven wear. Expect the cost to run anywhere from $800 to $2,500 per tooth, depending on the dentist and location. They’re very durable, often lasting 10-15 years with proper care, and resist staining better than composite options.
Composite bonding – Bonding uses a tooth-colored resin applied directly to your tooth. It’s less invasive than veneers and can often be done in one visit. The dentist sculpts and hardens it with a special light. Cost is typically $200 to $600 per tooth, making it a much more budget-friendly choice. Bonding isn’t as long-lasting as porcelain, usually lasting 5-7 years, and may require touch-ups. It’s perfect if your teeth need moderate repair without a big commitment.
Dental crowns – Crowns cover the entire tooth, protecting it from further grinding damage. The process is quite a bit more invasive than veneers or bonding because a significant portion of the natural tooth is shaped to fit the crown. Crowns can cost between $800 and $1,800 per tooth. They’re extremely durable, often lasting 10-20 years, and are ideal for teeth that are weak or cracked.
Onlays or inlays – These are like partial crowns, restoring just the damaged or worn chewing surfaces. Less invasive than full crowns, they preserve more of your natural tooth. Cost usually ranges from $500 to $1,500 per tooth. Onlays and inlays are very effective for restoring function, especially for back teeth that deal with the really heavy grinding. They’re strong, long-lasting, and a great middle ground between bonding and crowns.
How To Prevent Teeth Grinding
A lot of teeth grinding comes from stress, so finding ways to relax or simplify your busy life can really help. Take time for yourself to go on walks, find low-stress hobbies you enjoy, or focus on taking deep breaths. Cutting back on coffee, energy drinks, or alcohol can also ease jaw tension. During the day, try to notice if you’re clenching your jaw and consciously relax it. Even fixing your posture can help, because a tense neck and shoulders often lead to a tight jaw.
How To Stop Teeth Grinding At Night
Many people find that creating a relaxing bedtime routine can help settle the body down and minimize clenching. Gentle jaw stretches before bed can ease tension, and finding the right pillow and mattress combo also aids better sleep. These little changes might not stop grinding completely, but they can really cut down how often it happens and how hard your teeth take the hit.
Wearing a nightguard is another highly effective way to protect your teeth while you sleep. These mouthguards act as a barrier, keeping your teeth from grinding against each other and reducing jaw strain. You can get over-the-counter options, but they often don’t fit as well and might not last very long. However, these will be much less expensive than a custom nightguard.
A custom-made nightguard from your dentist is molded specifically to your teeth for a snug, comfortable fit. These usually cost between $300 and $800. They tend to be more durable and effective than store-bought guards, often lasting several years if taken care of. Your dentist can also adjust the fit and thickness to give you the best protection against nighttime grinding.
The Grinded Teeth Repair Guide Conclusion
Even if you aren’t fully aware of it, grinding might be affecting your smile in a very negative way. Pay attention to the possible symptoms and continue making routine dental checkups a top priority. Your dentist can make you aware of any issues and be very instrumental in stopping further damage. If grinding has already significantly impacted your mouth and jaw, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team at Utah Periodontal Specialists. We’ll help you determine which restorative treatment works best for your unique situation and walk you through the entire process. With locations in South Jordan and Salt Lake City, it’s more convenient than ever to keep your oral health in tip-top condition.
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