How to Know If You’re Grinding Your Teeth While Sleeping

Teeth grinding while asleep can have a negative impact on dental health, but many people have no idea that they are doing it.

Here’s how to tell if you are grinding your teeth at night:

• Neck or Jaw Pain – If you wake up with a headache, earache or facial/jaw pain you may be grinding your teeth while you sleep. This pain is caused by irritation to the muscles in your head and neck
• Abnormal Tooth Wear – Extra wear on your teeth are a sign of nighttime grinding, be on the look out for teeth that are worn down, flattened, fractured or chipped.
• Increased Tooth Sensitivity – Worn enamel and tooth damage may be adding to tooth sensitivity.
• Tongue Indentations – Be aware of impressions or indentations on your tongue.
• Night Time Clenching or Grinding Sounds – These sounds may be loud enough to wake your sleep partner.

If you notice these symptoms and believe you may be grinding your teeth at night talk to your dentist about jaw alignment or consider a mouthguard.