Grinding & Jaw Pain
Distinguishing between sleep and awake bruxism is critical for effective treatment. While both involve tooth wear, their underlying causes and management strategies differ significantly.
Sleep Bruxism: Grinding or clenching during sleep, usually without awareness. It often happens during brief arousals from light sleep and can be linked to snoring, sleep apnoea, some medicines, caffeine, alcohol and smoking. A custom-made night guard protects the teeth; it does not stop the grinding, so the causes are checked too.
Awake Bruxism: Clenching or holding the teeth together during the day, often without noticing, especially when concentrating or under stress. Management focuses on noticing the habit, keeping the jaw relaxed with lips together and teeth apart, and reducing triggers.
Common Signs
Worn or chipped tooth edges
Morning jaw ache or temple headaches
Cracked or broken teeth
Increased tooth sensitivity
Visible tooth flattening
Difficulty opening the mouth
Night Guards in Doha
A custom night guard is made from a scan or impression of your teeth. It fits closely, keeps your bite balanced and takes the force of grinding instead of your enamel, crowns or veneers.
It protects the teeth but does not stop the grinding itself, so your sleep, stress, caffeine and daytime clenching habits are reviewed too.
Watch: Teeth Grinding Explained
Teeth grinding (bruxism), explained in Arabic by Dr. Mohamed Basha