A dentist has warned that bruxism, the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth often caused by stress, is causing lasting damage to teeth across the UK, with most people unaware they are doing it. Dr Bhavika Parekh, a dental surgeon at Smile n Shine, says dentists are increasingly treating patients with worn-down teeth, cracked enamel, and aching jaws.
Dr Parekh noted that the signs of bruxism are unmistakable once you know what to look for: flatter teeth, cracking enamel, and patients waking up with a tight jaw or dull headache. She explained that stress is almost always the common thread, and that you can often read someone's stress levels in their teeth long before they realise the connection themselves.
The harm caused by bruxism accumulates quietly over months and years until something forces you to take notice, such as a cracked tooth, persistent jaw ache, or increased tooth sensitivity. Dr Parekh emphasised that earlier intervention is always better, as by the time patients notice symptoms, longer-term damage is already visible.
Bruxism is not exclusively an adult concern; it is actually more common among children and teenagers than older adults. With exam season underway and GCSE and A-level results approaching, Dr Parekh warned that parents should watch for warning signs in their children, such as jaw pain, frequent morning headaches, or audible grinding at night.
The NHS recommends taking painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen for jaw pain or swelling, and applying an ice pack wrapped in a tea towel for 20 to 30 minutes to reduce discomfort.
