Did you know that during sleep, the jaw can exert up to 700 psi of pressure—five to six times stronger than normal chewing?
This level of force is powerful enough to crack enamel, damage fillings, and even shift teeth over time.

Unlike normal chewing, sleep bruxism (nighttime grinding or clenching) bypasses the body’s natural protective reflexes. Because of this, the pressure becomes uncontrolled and can lead to serious dental complications.

What Happens to the Teeth and Jaw During Sleep Bruxism?

Nighttime grinding places constant, excessive force on the teeth and jaw structures. Over time, this can result in:

1. Microfractures and significant enamel wear

2. Permanent loss of dental structure that cannot regenerate

3. Pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

4. Morning headaches and facial tension

5. Enlargement of jaw muscles, leading to a more square or bulky facial appearance

These symptoms often develop gradually, making bruxism a silent but destructive condition if left untreated.

Common Causes of Bruxism

Research shows that several factors can contribute to nighttime clenching and grinding. The most frequent triggers include:

• Stress and anxiety

• Sleep disorders and insomnia

• High caffeine intake

• Obstructive sleep apnea

• Certain antidepressant medications

Understanding and addressing the underlying cause is an important part of successful treatment.

Effective Solutions: Early Diagnosis and Professional Treatment

Bruxism is manageable when identified early. At Ledismile Dental Clinic, we recommend a comprehensive evaluation to determine the severity and impact on the teeth and jaw.

Common treatment options include:

• Custom-made night guards designed to protect teeth and absorb excessive pressure

• Stress management techniques to reduce involuntary nighttime clenching

• In severe cases, targeted muscle-relaxing therapy to help reduce jaw tension

These interventions help prevent long-term damage, relieve pain, and protect your overall oral health.

Do Not Ignore Teeth Grinding

Nighttime bruxism can cause more harm than most people realize. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are essential to preserving healthy teeth, preventing fractures, and maintaining proper jaw function.

Visit Ledismile for a professional assessment of your jaw and dental health.
Location: Rr. “Irfan Tomini”, Tirana

This post is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional dental advice.