Do you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or tooth sensitivity? You could be dealing with bruxism—the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often during sleep. While it may not seem urgent, this condition can lead to serious dental damage and unexpected emergencies if left untreated.
At Emergency Dentist Portland, we treat many patients with complications related to chronic teeth grinding. In this guide, we’ll explain what causes bruxism, how it affects your dental health, how to prevent it, and when to seek emergency dental care.
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is a condition characterized by repetitive grinding or clenching of the teeth. It can happen during the day (often due to stress) or while you’re sleeping. This constant pressure on your teeth and jaw can cause significant wear over time and lead to more serious dental issues.
How Grinding and Clenching Harm your Teeth
Even occasional teeth grinding can wear down the enamel, but persistent bruxism may lead to:
Tooth wear and fractures
Excessive grinding can wear away your enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to cracks and chips. Severe cases may require tooth extractions or emergency restorative dental treatment.
Jaw pain and TMJ disorders
Clenching can place added strain on your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), leading to conditions that cause clicking, pain, and limited movement. Our jaw injury and TMJ treatments can provide relief and help prevent worsening damage.
Tooth sensitivity
As enamel wears down, the sensitive inner layer of your teeth becomes exposed. This leads to increased discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sugary foods.
Gum recession and tooth mobility
Grinding puts pressure on the structures supporting your teeth, contributing to gum recession and tooth mobility—early signs of periodontal issues.
When Bruxism Causes a Dental Emergency
While bruxism often progresses slowly, it can trigger sudden dental emergencies, such as:
- Cracked or broken teeth that expose the inner pulp and cause severe pain or infection
- Dislodged crowns or fillings, which leave teeth unprotected and vulnerable
- Persistent toothaches caused by pressure-induced nerve inflammation, which may require root canal therapy
If you're experiencing these symptoms, don’t delay—call our Portland emergency dentist to get help right away.
How to Prevent Teeth Grinding and Clenching
Thankfully, there are several effective ways to manage and prevent bruxism:
Wear a custom night guard
A custom-fit night guard creates a protective barrier between your teeth while you sleep. This minimizes wear and reduces pressure on the jaw.
Manage stress and anxiety
Since bruxism is often stress-related, techniques like meditation, therapy, or exercise can help break the cycle of unconscious clenching.
Correct bite misalignment
An improper bite can encourage grinding. We offer dental exams and can recommend corrective treatments if alignment is a contributing factor.
Avoid stimulants before bedtime
Caffeine, alcohol, and certain medications can heighten the chances of nighttime grinding. Limiting these substances—especially in the evening—can help reduce symptoms.
When to Visit a Dentist
If you notice signs like jaw tension, chipped teeth, or tooth sensitivity, it’s time to schedule a visit. Regular checkups can catch bruxism early and prevent more serious damage.
If you're in pain, have a broken tooth, or lost a filling due to grinding, Emergency Dentist Portland offers same-day emergency dental care.
Schedule An Appointment
Bruxism isn’t just a habit—it’s a real risk to your oral health. By acting early and using preventive tools like night guards or managing stress, you can stop the damage before it starts.
If you need a professional assessment or you're in the middle of a dental emergency, contact our Portland dental team. We’re here to help you protect your smile and relieve pain fast.