How To Stop Teeth Grinding At Night? Causes & How to Fix It

Waking up with sore jaws or headaches? That tight clenching in your sleep might be more than just stress. If you’re searching for how to stop teeth grinding at night, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place.

Nighttime teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, affects millions. It can damage teeth, strain jaw muscles, and seriously impact your sleep. But here’s the good news: you can do something about it. Let’s dive into the why, the symptoms, and how to finally fix it—starting tonight.

Why Do People Grind Their Teeth at Night?

There’s no single reason why people grind their teeth. For many, it happens without even knowing—until the damage begins. Stress is a top factor, but not the only one.

Here are the main causes:

• Stress and Anxiety: Your mind doesn’t sleep when you do. Worry and tension often turn into unconscious grinding.
• Sleep Disorders: Problems like sleep apnea or snoring increase your risk of bruxism.
• Jaw Misalignment: A bite that’s off-balance can cause your muscles to work overtime.
• Lifestyle Factors: Caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco can trigger grinding by stimulating your nervous system.
• Medication Side Effects: Certain antidepressants and neurological drugs have been linked to bruxism.
• Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ): These issues with your jaw joint often go hand-in-hand with teeth grinding.

Grinding is your body’s way of coping—but it’s not harmless.

Symptoms of Nighttime Teeth Grinding

Think of your body like a dashboard—bruxism lights up warning signs you shouldn’t ignore.

Common symptoms include:

• A sore or tired jaw when you wake up
• Dull headaches starting at your temples
• Cracked or flattened teeth
• Tooth sensitivity, especially to cold
• Clicking or popping in the jaw
• Facial muscle tension
• Disturbed sleep (for you or your partner!)

Even if you’re not hearing the grind, your dentist might spot the signs during a regular check-up.

How to Stop Teeth Grinding at Night

Now the part you’ve been waiting for—how to stop teeth grinding at night. Stopping bruxism often means addressing both the cause and the damage.

Let’s break it down:

1. Use a Nightguard

A custom-fit nightguard cushions your teeth and absorbs the pressure from clenching. It won’t stop the grinding, but it protects your enamel and reduces jaw strain.

Not all guards are equal—store-bought options can make things worse. Ask your local dentist or dentist in Northwest Calgary about a professionally made guard that fits like a glove.

2. Stress Management

If stress is the spark, calming your nervous system can quiet the grind. Consider:

• Deep breathing or guided meditation before bed
• Limiting screen time at night
• Getting into a relaxing nighttime routine
• Journaling to unload your thoughts
• Talking to a therapist for long-term tools

3. Jaw Exercises and Massage

Gentle stretches or massages around the jaw and temples can reduce tension. Your dentist may recommend specific exercises to loosen those overworked muscles.

4. Lifestyle Tweaks

Little changes go a long way:

• Cut back on caffeine, especially in the evening
• Avoid chewing gum—it’s like a workout for your jaw
• Stay hydrated; dehydration can make muscles cramp more easily
• If you smoke or drink often, consider reducing or quitting

5. Sleep Hygiene Matters

Bad sleep can fuel grinding. Help your body relax by:

• Sticking to a sleep schedule
• Sleeping in a dark, quiet, cool room
• Limiting naps and heavy meals before bed
• Avoiding alcohol before bedtime (it disrupts REM sleep)

When to See a Dentist

Here’s a good rule: if you’re asking how to stop teeth grinding at night, it’s time to book a visit. Don’t wait until your teeth show signs of damage or your jaw begins clicking. Early care means less repair.

If you’re from the area, go to a dentist with experience in TMJ treatment in Northwest Calgary who can examine your bite, review symptoms, and create a personalized treatment plan. This might include a nightguard, bite adjustment, muscle relaxants, or therapy referrals.

They can also evaluate if you’re dealing with TMJ disorder—a condition where the jaw joint is inflamed or misaligned. This is closely linked to bruxism and may need targeted care like splints, relaxation therapy, or even dental corrections.

At Carrington Dental, your comfort and health are always a priority. We take time to understand the root cause and walk you through every step, so you feel confident and in control of your care.

Final Thoughts

Teeth grinding at night doesn’t have to control your mornings. With the right tools, support, and care, you can break the cycle and protect your smile long-term.

If you’re tired of waking up with a sore jaw or worried about wearing down your teeth, now’s the time to act. A little attention today can save you a lot of pain—and money—tomorrow.

Ready to find relief? Start by booking a consultation with an efficient dentist in Northwest Calgary. You’ve got solutions. Let’s use them.

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