Are your teeth trying to tell you something? Many people clench or grind their teeth (called bruxism) without realizing it, often due to stress or sleep disorders. Every night of clenching adds up: Creating excessive pressure on the teeth and gums can lead to gum recession. Receding gums expose tooth roots and increase sensitivity.
Want to stop problems before they start? Take a closer look at how bruxism affects your gum health.
What Is Bruxism, and What Causes It?
Bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, is a condition that can occur during the day or while sleeping. It’s often caused by stress, anxiety, an improper bite, or sleep disorders like sleep apnea. Sleep bruxism is most common from ages 10 to 14, while awake bruxism is more prevalent in adults.1
Frequent teeth grinding may cause:
- Excessive pressure on teeth and gums
- Gum tissue damage and recession
- Exposed tooth roots
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Potential tooth loosening
- Risk of infection
The good news is that recognizing the signs of bruxism early can help prevent serious gum damage. A dental professional at Poway Perio can assess your symptoms and recommend appropriate periodontal care for bruxism, from custom nightguards to stress management.
How Do Clenching and Grinding Lead to Gum Recession?
Over time, the excessive force from teeth grinding acts like a slow but persistent pressure on your gum tissue. Your gums are the protective foundation of your smile; when this foundation experiences constant stress, it gradually begins to weaken and pull away from your teeth. This continuous pressure can cause inflammation and, eventually, gum recession.
As your gums recede, they expose the sensitive tooth roots that were meant to stay protected beneath healthy tissue. This exposure not only increases your risk of tooth decay and sensitivity but can also make simple activities like enjoying hot coffee or cold drinks uncomfortable.
Treatment Options for Bruxism-Related Gum Recession
Managing bruxism effectively is key to protecting your gum health and preventing further damage. Patients are often relieved to learn that there are several proven treatments available to address both the grinding habit and its effects on gum tissue.
Treatment options for teeth grinding include:
- Custom-fitted nightguards to protect teeth during sleep
- Stress management techniques like meditation or counseling
- Bite adjustment to correct misaligned teeth
- Behavioral therapy to reduce daytime clenching
- Gum grafting procedures to restore receded tissue
By combining protective measures like nightguards with techniques to address the root causes of grinding, most patients see significant improvement in their symptoms. Studies show that while mouthguards won’t stop you from grinding your teeth, they do help protect you from wear and tear and reduce morning jaw pain.2
Concerned about nightly teeth grinding? Our team at Poway Perio is here to help. We offer personalized gum recession solutions to minimize and repair damage. Schedule a consultation to discuss your treatment options.
Sources:
- What is bruxism? Mark, Anita M. The Journal of the American Dental Association, Volume 152, Issue 9, 788.
- Lal SJ, Sankari A, Weber, DDS KK. Bruxism Management. [Updated 2024 May 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482466/
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can grinding my teeth cause my gums to recede?
Yes, constant clenching and grinding put extra pressure on your gums, which can cause them to recede over time. If left untreated, it can lead to sensitivity and other dental issues.
2. How do I know if I’m grinding my teeth at night?
Many people grind their teeth unconsciously while they sleep, so it can be difficult to notice. Some common signs include waking up with a sore jaw, frequent headaches, worn-down teeth, or increased tooth sensitivity. Our periodontist team in Poway, San Diego, can also check for signs of grinding during your exam.
3. What can a periodontist do to help with gum recession from grinding?
Our team at Poway Perio offers expert periodontal care for bruxism, is available to support patients experiencing pain or gum recession. We can assess your gum health and offer solutions like gum grafting, nightguards, or laser therapy to protect and restore your gums.
4. Are nightguards effective for stopping teeth grinding?
Yes! A custom-fitted nightguard can cushion your teeth and gums, reducing the pressure from grinding and helping to prevent further recession. This also helps minimize jaw pain, enamel wear, and other complications associated with bruxism. Poway Perio provides professionally made nightguards tailored to your bite for maximum protection.
5. What’s the best way to treat gum recession caused by bruxism?
The best approach to bruxism treatment depends on the severity of the recession. Protective measures like a nightguard can help prevent further damage, while treatments like gum grafting can restore lost gum tissue. If you’re in Poway, scheduling a consultation with our dental team can help you find a personalized solution.
