Why it May Hurt to Clench Your Teeth
Posted on 12/1/2025 by Highridge Dental Care Folsom |
 Have you ever caught yourself with your teeth tightly pressed together, jaw muscles tense? Many people do this, often without even realizing it. This habit, called clenching teeth, might seem harmless, but it can actually lead to a variety of problems, from headaches to damaged teeth. Let’s explore why this happens and what you can do about it.
What is Teeth Clenching?
Clenching teeth involves forcefully pressing your upper and lower teeth together. It’s similar to grinding your teeth (bruxism), but instead of moving your jaw back and forth, you’re simply clamping down. This can happen during the day or at night, often unconsciously.
Why Do People Clench?
There are many reasons why people clench their teeth. Stress and anxiety are major culprits. When you're stressed, your muscles tense up, and that can include the muscles in your jaw. Other factors include:
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Sleep disorders: Conditions like sleep apnea are linked to nighttime teeth grinding and clenching. |
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Certain medications: Some antidepressants and other medications can have teeth clenching as a side effect. |
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Missing or misaligned teeth: These can disrupt your bite and lead to clenching as your jaw tries to compensate. |
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Habit: Sometimes, clenching simply becomes a habit, even after the initial cause is gone. |
The Problems Caused by Clenching
Clenching can put a lot of pressure on your teeth, jaw muscles, and temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which connect your jaw to your skull. Over time, this pressure can lead to:
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Tooth Damage: Clenching can wear down your tooth enamel, making your teeth more sensitive and susceptible to cavities. It can also cause teeth to chip, crack, or even break. |
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Jaw Pain: The constant tension in your jaw muscles can cause pain, stiffness, and tenderness. |
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Headaches: Clenching can trigger tension headaches, especially in the temples. |
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TMJ Disorders: These disorders can cause pain, clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw joint. |
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Earaches: Because the TMJ is located near the ear, problems with the joint can sometimes cause ear pain. |
What Can You Do?
If you suspect you’re clenching your teeth, there are several steps you can take:
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Stress Management: Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature. |
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Relaxation Techniques: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation to help release tension in your jaw. |
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Mouthguards: A custom-fitted mouthguard, especially for nighttime use, can protect your teeth from the forces of clenching. |
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Awareness: Pay attention to your jaw throughout the day. If you catch yourself clenching, consciously relax your jaw muscles. Set reminders on your phone or computer if needed. |
The Role of Your Dental Professional
Your dentist is an important partner in addressing teeth clenching. During your regular checkups, your dentist can look for signs of clenching, such as worn enamel or jaw muscle tenderness. They can also recommend appropriate treatments, including a custom mouthguard or referrals to other specialists. In some cases, addressing underlying issues with your bite through restoration dentistry might be a solution.
Taking Care of Your Smile
Clenching your teeth can have a significant impact on your oral care. By understanding the causes and consequences of this habit, you can take steps to protect your teeth and jaw. Remember to prioritize stress management, practice relaxation techniques, and work with your dentist to find the best solutions for your individual needs.
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