Questions answered by University Health Center dental hygienists, Amber Duey and Kelly Nathan.
Late nights, long study sessions and back-to-back deadlines can be stressful. When stress builds up, it can show up in your body. If you’ve been waking up with jaw pain or noticing you clench your teeth while studying, stress may be playing a bigger role than you think.
What is teeth grinding?
Bruxism ─ more commonly known as teeth clenching or teeth grinding ─ happens when you grind or press your teeth together. It’s more common than you might think, and many people do it without even realizing it.
There are two common patterns:
- Daytime clenching: Often linked to stress, anxiety or intense concentration (like studying for an exam). Many students do this without realizing it.
- Nighttime grinding: Happens during sleep. Because you’re unaware it’s happening, it can sometimes be more forceful or prolonged.
Common signs to watch for
You may not notice you're grinding or clenching your teeth until symptoms appear, such as:
- Tension or pain in your jaw.
- Waking up with headaches.
- Sensitive or worn-down teeth.
Ignoring the signs of bruxism can lead to long-term problems. Over time, you could develop:
- TMJ disorder (temporomandibular joint dysfunction), which affects jaw movement and can cause chronic pain.
- Tooth damage, including chips, cracks or enamel wear.
- Poor sleep quality, which can affect mood, health and academic performance.
When does grinding cause damage?
Occasional clenching during a stressful week isn’t uncommon, but repeated grinding over time can wear down the protective outer layer of your teeth called the enamel. As enamel thins, teeth can become more sensitive and more vulnerable to chips or cracks.
Why stress makes it worse
Stress increases muscle tension throughout the body. During exams or long study sessions, you may unconsciously tighten those muscles for hours at a time. At night, your body may continue that tension pattern while you sleep.
What you can try right away
If your symptoms are mild, small changes can help:
- Check in with yourself during study sessions. Are your teeth touching? Let them rest slightly apart.
- Unclench your jaw and relax your tongue to the floor of your mouth.
- Take short stretch breaks to release neck and shoulder tension.
- Avoid chewing on pens or ice.
When to see the dentist
It’s time to make an appointment if you notice:
- Persistent jaw pain.
- Frequent headaches.
- Worsening tooth sensitivity.
- Visible wear or chipping.
- Significant jaw tightness when you wake up.
- Jaw locking or difficulty opening and closing your mouth.
The good news is that bruxism is manageable and treatable. Your dentist will work with you to determine the best treatment option, which may include:
- Dental guards: These custom-fit devices create a barrier between your teeth. The University Health Center’s dental clinic can help you get fitted for one.
- Stress management: Reducing stress can make a big difference. Consider talking to a counselor through CAPS or try mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
- Behavioral changes: Avoid chewing on pens or gum, watch your posture and stay mindful of clenching during the day.
If you're dealing with frequent headaches, jaw soreness or suspect you’re grinding or clenching your teeth, the University Health Center Dental Clinic can evaluate your symptoms and recommend next steps. Call 402.472.7495 to schedule an appointment.
