At Michigan Head & Neck Institute in Detroit, many patients come in describing mornings filled with facial tension, jaw pain, or persistent headaches. These symptoms are often tied to nighttime bruxism—grinding or clenching that happens while you sleep. Stress can trigger daytime clenching as well, and certain medications may contribute to the habit. Because most people aren’t aware they grind their teeth unless someone tells them, understanding bruxism and its effects is essential.

For more than 50 years, bruxism has been documented as a major factor in the onset or continuation of TMD and myofascial pain. Patients often believe bruxism contributes to their TMJ symptoms, and dental professionals consider it a key part of the pathogenesis of TMJ disorders.

What Causes Bruxism?

Bruxism doesn’t have a single cause—most patients experience it due to a combination of stress, lifestyle factors, jaw function, and underlying medical issues. Stress is one of the most common triggers, as anxiety, frustration, and emotional tension often lead to unconscious clenching. Certain personality types, particularly those who are competitive, high-energy, or naturally driven, may also be more prone to grinding.

Age can influence grinding as well. Children frequently grind while transitioning from baby teeth to adult teeth. Teens and college students may grind under academic pressure, and adults often develop bruxism related to work demands, family responsibilities, financial strain, or undiagnosed sleep disorders.

TMJ dysfunction can also contribute to bruxism. When the jaw joints and surrounding muscles are not functioning properly, the body may respond by clenching or grinding in an attempt to stabilize the bite or relieve tension. This creates a cycle in which TMJ disorders worsen bruxism—and bruxism, in turn, worsens TMJ symptoms such as jaw pain, popping, and muscle fatigue.

Medications can play a role as well. Stimulants used for ADHD or OCD, along with certain antidepressants, may increase grinding frequency. Substances like caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, and energy drinks can intensify clenching habits.

Bruxism is also associated with medical conditions such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), Parkinson’s disease, GERD, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, ADHD, and OCD. A family history of grinding further increases susceptibility.

How Bruxism Affects Your Health

Bruxism can impact your body in many ways. Headaches or migraines are common, and many patients notice limited jaw movement, neck stiffness, or tension in the shoulders. Jaw pain may develop along with clicking or popping sounds, and some people develop tongue indentations from pressing against the teeth. Ear pain (otalgia), receding gums, and tooth mobility or sensitivity can also occur. Sleep disturbances are frequent, and over time the constant pressure can wear down enamel or even lead to tooth breakage.

When left untreated, bruxism can progress to jaw joint dislocation, which may require an intraoral orthotic or TMJ surgery.

Why Dentists Pay Close Attention to Bruxism

With increased awareness of sleep disorders, dental professionals routinely ask about clenching and grinding during both day and night. This is because elevated nighttime chewing forces can lead to occlusal overload, which affects dental treatments and long-term oral health.

Restorative work—such as crowns, bridges, and implants performed by prosthodontists—can be compromised by uncontrolled bruxism. Periodontists often treat gum recession and tooth mobility related to chronic grinding as well.

Bruxism Self-Assessment

You may be experiencing bruxism if you answer “Yes” to any of the following:

  • Have you been told you grind your teeth at night?
  • Have you woken yourself or your bed partner due to grinding sounds?
  • Has your dentist mentioned enamel wear or gum recession?
  • Do you wake up with headaches?
  • Do you frequently have neck or shoulder pain?
  • Do you experience jaw pain, popping, or clicking?

Find Relief at Michigan Head & Neck Institute in Detroit

If jaw pain, headaches, or grinding symptoms are affecting your daily comfort, it’s time to get answers. A comprehensive evaluation at Michigan Head & Neck Institute in Detroit can help identify the cause of your symptoms and determine the most effective path forward. Our practice provides detailed assessments and proven treatment options for bruxism and TMJ-related concerns. Reach out today at (586) 573-0438 to schedule your evaluation and take the first step toward long-lasting relief and healthier function.