Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Often nocturnal clenching or grinding that wears teeth and strains the jaw.
What it means
Understanding teeth grinding (bruxism)
Teeth grinding and clenching, known as bruxism, is a common habit that often happens during sleep, so many people are unaware they do it. Over time, the significant forces involved can wear down teeth, chip or crack them, damage restorations, and strain the jaw muscles and joints. It is a frequent contributor to jaw pain, tension headaches and worn, sensitive teeth.
Bruxism has several possible triggers, with stress and sleep factors playing a role for many people, alongside the way the teeth meet. While the habit itself may be difficult to stop entirely, its effects on the teeth and jaw can be managed effectively — the priority is protecting your teeth from further damage.
A GDC-registered dentist can look for the tell-tale signs of grinding, assess any damage and recommend how best to protect your teeth and relieve strain.
Common causes of teeth grinding (bruxism)
Several factors can contribute to teeth grinding (bruxism). Being aware of them can help — though only an examination can confirm what applies to you. Common contributing factors include:
- Stress, anxiety or tension
- Sleep-related factors
- An uneven bite
- Lifestyle factors such as caffeine or alcohol
- Some medications
- A habit carried over from childhood
Signs and symptoms to look out for
Symptoms vary from person to person, and some can be subtle. You may notice one or more of the following:
- Worn, flattened or chipped teeth
- Jaw ache or tension, especially in the morning
- Tension-type headaches
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Aching or tired jaw muscles
- A partner noticing grinding sounds at night
How we assess it at our Wimpole Street practice
Because the same symptoms can have different causes, an accurate diagnosis always comes first. At Wimpole Dental, a GDC-registered dentist will listen to your concerns, examine the area and — where clinically appropriate — take X-rays or other records to understand what is happening beneath the surface. Our practice is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and every clinician is registered with the General Dental Council (GDC).
You will then have your options explained in plain English, with a written, itemised estimate before any treatment begins — and never any pressure to proceed. Flexible payment options may be available — ask at your consultation.
What to expect when you visit us
From your very first contact, our aim is to make dental care feel calm, clear and unhurried. A member of our reception team will help you find a time that suits you, including evening and weekend appointments, and if you are in pain we will do our best to see you the same day. You are welcome as a new patient, and there is no obligation to proceed with any treatment.
At your appointment, a GDC-registered dentist will take time to understand your concerns about teeth grinding (bruxism), carry out a careful examination and, where clinically appropriate, take X-rays or other records. They will then explain what they have found and set out the suitable options — from doing nothing and monitoring, through to the treatments described above — so you can make an informed decision that is right for you.
If you feel anxious about visiting the dentist, you are far from alone, and we are experienced in caring for nervous patients. Please tell us how you feel when you book: we will move at your pace, explain each step before it happens, and focus on keeping you comfortable throughout. Our priority is honest, gentle care that puts your long-term health first.
Solutions & treatment options
The mainstay of management is protecting the teeth and reducing strain. A custom-made night guard (occlusal splint) worn during sleep cushions the teeth and helps distribute the forces of grinding, protecting both your natural teeth and any dental work. It is a simple, reversible and effective way to limit further damage.
Where grinding has already worn or damaged teeth, they can be repaired and protected — for example with bonding, and in more extensive cases with crowns or a wider restorative plan. Addressing contributing factors such as stress, and reviewing the bite, can also help.
Your dentist will explain a tailored approach and provide a written estimate, always aiming to protect your long-term dental health.
The treatment we most often use
Night Guards (Teeth Grinding)
Custom-fitted night guards that protect your teeth from grinding and clenching (bruxism) while you sleep.
Prevention & everyday care
While professional care is important, good daily habits make a real difference. The following steps can help:
- Wear a custom night guard as advised
- Manage stress with relaxation techniques where possible
- Reduce caffeine and alcohol, particularly in the evening
- Be mindful of daytime clenching and consciously relax the jaw
- Have worn or damaged teeth reviewed and protected
- Attend regular check-ups to monitor wear
When to see a dentist
If this sounds familiar, it's worth having it assessed early — problems are almost always simpler to treat when caught sooner. A £30 consultation lets a GDC-registered dentist find the cause and explain your options in plain English, with no pressure to proceed.
Questions & Answers
Frequently asked questions
Because grinding often happens during sleep, signs such as worn or sensitive teeth, morning jaw ache or headaches, or a partner hearing grinding are common clues. A dentist can spot the characteristic wear patterns during an examination.
Over time, grinding can wear, chip and crack teeth and damage restorations, and worn tooth structure does not grow back. Protecting the teeth with a night guard and repairing any damage helps prevent further, potentially lasting harm.
A night guard does not stop the habit itself, but it cushions and protects your teeth and helps distribute the forces, reducing wear and easing strain on the jaw. It is a widely used, reversible way to protect your teeth.
No. This page is general education to help you understand a common concern. It is not a diagnosis, and the same symptoms can have different causes. Only an in-person examination by a GDC-registered dentist can confirm what is happening and what, if anything, needs treating.
You will always receive a written, itemised quote before any treatment begins. New patients start with a £30 consultation; flexible payment options may be available — ask at your consultation.
That is very common and completely understood. Our team is experienced in caring for anxious patients: your dentist will explain everything in plain English, work at your pace and never pressure you to proceed. Let us know how you feel when you book so we can make your visit as calm and comfortable as possible.
Yes. Wimpole Dental is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and every clinician is registered with the General Dental Council (GDC), with numbers you can verify on the public register. Our marketing follows advertising standards guidance for healthcare, and we never guarantee outcomes.
You can book online, request a call back, or call us on 020 7183 0692. New patients are welcome, and we offer evening and weekend appointments as well as same-day emergency slots where possible.
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22 Wimpole St, London W1G 8GQ · CQC regulated · GDC-registered clinicians