Clenching, Grinding and Your Smile: What to Know Before You Whiten

Clenching and grinding (known as bruxism) is more common than most people realise. Research suggests roughly one in four adults clench or grind while awake, and around one in eight during sleep.¹ Many don’t know they do it.

Signs you might be clenching or grinding

•     Flattened, chipped or worn biting edges

•     Jaw tightness or aching, especially on waking

•     Morning headaches around the temples

•     Tooth sensitivity without an obvious cause

•     A partner who hears grinding at night

How it affects the look of your teeth

Over time, grinding wears away enamel. As enamel thins, more of the naturally yellower dentine underneath shows through, and biting edges can become shorter, chipped or more see-through. Whitening can brighten natural tooth colour, but it can’t rebuild worn enamel or change the shape of a tooth.

What it means for whitening

Worn enamel and exposed dentine can make teeth more prone to sensitivity. If you know you clench or grind, mention it at your consultation so your treatment can be tailored to you. In most cases we still whiten your teeth. We’ll just add extra protection and cover any exposed dentine first.

What helps

If you suspect you grind, speak with your dentist. They can assess any wear and may recommend a custom-made splint or night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep. Being mindful of daytime clenching (keeping lips together and teeth slightly apart) and managing stress can also help.

Read next: How Many Shades Whiter Will Your Teeth Get?

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References

1.    Manfredini D, Winocur E, Guarda-Nardini L, Paesani D, Lobbezoo F. Epidemiology of bruxism in adults: a systematic review of the literature. Journal of Orofacial Pain. 2013;27(2):99–110.