Teeth Grinding

Under normal circumstances, your teeth should only come into contact for about five minutes per day. During normal chewing, brief, light contact between the enamel surfaces—nature’s hardest material—causes only minimal wear over a lifetime. But when teeth start to look flat, chipped, or worn down prematurely, it’s often a sign of a more serious issue known as bruxism, or chronic teeth grinding.

At North Roanoke Dental Associates in Roanoke, Virginia, Dr. Brett Rhodes frequently sees signs of bruxism even in young patients. X-rays may reveal unusually thin enamel or a sanded-down appearance across the chewing surfaces. Since ordinary eating can’t cause that level of damage, the culprit is often excessive grinding or clenching—sometimes during the day, but more often at night.

You Might Not Even Know It

Many people grind their teeth in their sleep without realizing it. If you wake up with jaw soreness, morning headaches, or tightness in your facial muscles, you could be grinding unconsciously. Over time, the powerful jaw muscles used in clenching can enlarge and become overactive, producing significant wear on teeth and strain on the joints that connect your jaw to your skull. This can lead to popping, clicking, or even arthritic changes that may cause chronic pain or limited movement.

Protecting Your Teeth and Joints

If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth—or notice chips, flattened areas, or frequent headaches—it’s important to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rhodes. Early diagnosis helps prevent irreversible enamel loss and long-term joint damage. A custom night guard can provide immediate relief by preventing direct tooth contact and reducing jaw strain.

Daytime clenching and grinding habits can also be addressed through behavior awareness and stress-reduction techniques. Dr. Rhodes will assess your bite alignment to ensure your teeth come together harmoniously during chewing, reducing excess pressure and wear.

By treating teeth grinding early, you can protect your enamel, prevent jaw pain, and preserve your smile for years to come. Patients across Southwest Virginia trust North Roanoke Dental Associates for customized solutions that combine comfort, protection, and long-term dental health.