At Drs of Smiles in Mesa, Arizona, Dr. Glenn LeSueur, LVIF, helps patients get to the root of bruxism and jaw discomfort. With advanced training at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, he has extensive experience diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders using technology like K-7 and TENS. When your jaw does not feel right, there is usually a reason.
What Causes Teeth Grinding at Night?
Teeth grinding, also called sleep bruxism, can happen for several reasons. Stress and anxiety are common triggers. When your mind stays active, your jaw muscles may stay tense too.
Bite misalignment can also play a role. When your teeth do not fit together properly, your jaw may shift or clench while you sleep. Sleep disorders, caffeine, and alcohol can increase grinding as well.
In some cases, the answer to what causes teeth grinding points back to TMJ dysfunction, where the jaw joints and muscles are out of balance.
Common Symptoms of Bruxism
Teeth grinding at night does not always wake you up, but your body often shows signs. You might notice:
- Jaw pain from grinding
- Morning headaches
- Worn, chipped, or flattened teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Clicking or popping in your jaw
Over time, constant clenching can strain your facial muscles and even affect how well you sleep.
When Grinding Becomes a Bigger Problem
Ongoing grinding can wear down enamel and damage restorations. It may also worsen TMJ disorder, leading to chronic jaw pain or limited movement. The sooner you identify the cause, the easier it is to protect your teeth and joints.
How Drs of Smiles Can Help
Dr. LeSueur evaluates how your teeth, muscles, and jaw joints work together. A custom night guard for teeth grinding can protect your smile while you sleep. For patients with TMJ issues, advanced diagnostic tools help pinpoint the problem so treatment is tailored to your needs.
You deserve to wake up without jaw pain. Call Drs of Smiles in Mesa, AZ, at 480-834-6991 to schedule an appointment and find real answers.