Waking up with jaw pain or headaches? Your teeth may be working the night shift.
Most people who grind their teeth do it in their sleep — and never know until the signs show up: flattened or chipped teeth, morning headaches, a sore jaw, or a partner who hears the grinding at night.
Left untreated, grinding wears through enamel, cracks restorations, and can strain the jaw joint (TMJ). The good news: it's one of the most treatable problems in dentistry.
Clenching through the night overworks jaw muscles, and the tension often radiates into dull temple headaches you feel first thing in the morning.
Grinding sands down the chewing surfaces over time. If your teeth look worn or your bite feels different, it's worth an evaluation.
As enamel thins, hot, cold, and sweet foods start to sting. Sensitivity that's getting worse is a common grinding clue.
Nighttime grinding can exert enormous force — enough to crack restorations and even healthy teeth.
New patients welcome — evening and Saturday hours available.