Bruxism is the habit of grinding, clenching, or gnashing your teeth. It can happen during the day, but many people experience sleep bruxism without realizing it. Over time, this repeated pressure can wear down enamel, strain the jaw, and contribute to tooth sensitivity, headaches, and bite changes.

At Wilshire Dental, we often help Santa Monica patients identify signs of bruxism early so we can protect their teeth, comfort, and long-term oral health.
 

What Causes Bruxism?

Bruxism can have more than one cause. Stress and anxiety are common triggers, especially for people who clench their jaw during busy or tense moments. Sleep-related issues, bite imbalance, certain medications, and lifestyle habits like frequent caffeine or alcohol use may also play a role.

Because the cause can vary from person to person, a dental evaluation is important. We look at your teeth, bite, jaw muscles, and symptoms to better understand what may be contributing to the grinding or clenching.
 

Common Symptoms of Teeth Grinding

Many patients do not know they grind their teeth until a dentist points out the signs. Others notice discomfort but may not connect it to bruxism.

Common symptoms can include:

• Worn, flattened, chipped, or sensitive teeth
• Jaw soreness, tightness, or clicking
• Morning headaches or facial discomfort
• Tooth pain without an obvious cavity
• Disrupted sleep or reports of grinding sounds
• Tension in the temples, neck, or shoulders

If you notice these symptoms in Santa Monica, it may be time to schedule an exam before the wear becomes more serious.
 

Who Is Most at Risk?

Bruxism can affect children, teens, and adults. People with high stress levels, sleep disorders, misaligned bites, or a history of jaw tension may be more likely to develop it. It can also be more common in people who work long hours at a computer, concentrate with their jaw clenched, or carry tension in the face and neck.

Even if symptoms feel mild, repeated pressure on the teeth can add up over time. Early treatment helps reduce the risk of cracks, gum irritation, enamel loss, and ongoing jaw pain.
 

How Bruxism Can Affect Your Smile

Teeth are strong, but they are not designed to handle constant grinding pressure. Bruxism can make teeth look shorter, feel rough, or become more vulnerable to fractures. It may also damage existing dental work, such as crowns, veneers, fillings, or bonding.

For some patients, bruxism also contributes to TMJ discomfort. This can make chewing, yawning, or opening the mouth fully feel uncomfortable. Treating the habit can help protect both the teeth and the jaw.
 

How We Help Protect Your Teeth

At Wilshire Dental, we take a personalized approach to bruxism treatment. Depending on your needs, we may recommend a custom nightguard to protect your teeth while you sleep, evaluate your bite, discuss stress-related clenching habits, or monitor tooth wear over time.

A custom dental appliance is designed to fit comfortably and provide a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This can help reduce damage and support a healthier, more comfortable bite.
 

If you are dealing with teeth grinding, jaw pain, or worn teeth, contact Wilshire Dental in Santa Monica, CA by calling (310) 829-5181.