Symptoms

What causes teeth grinding (bruxism)?

Reviewed by Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist). Last reviewed November 3, 2026.

Status: Approved

Short answer: There's no single cause. The ADA and MedlinePlus say stress is a common trigger, and grinding can also be linked to sleep disorders, an abnormal bite, and missing or crooked teeth. The ADA notes that tobacco, alcohol and coffee have been linked to grinding too. Many people grind without knowing it, especially during sleep.

Common causes

According to the ADA, grinding can be linked to:

  • stress and anxiety
  • sleep disorders
  • an abnormal bite or missing or crooked teeth

The ADA says a study found people who smoke, drink alcohol or drink a lot of coffee were more likely to grind. MedlinePlus says experts don't fully agree on the cause, and lists posture, diet and sleep habits among other possible factors.

Children

The ADA says children often grind, and many outgrow it. Possible reasons include irritation in the mouth, allergies and teeth that don't line up.

Signs to watch for

  • chipped, cracked or worn-down teeth
  • jaw pain or tightness
  • dull headaches
  • ear or neck pain

Why it matters

MedlinePlus says grinding can wear down your teeth, put pressure on the muscles and tissues around your jaw, and cause headaches and jaw (TMJ) problems. It says to contact your dentist right away if you have trouble eating or opening your mouth.

At Indy Smile Group

Your dentist can check for signs of grinding at your exam. For ways to protect your teeth, see How to stop grinding your teeth at night. See our teeth cleaning pages for Fishers, Carmel and North Indy.

Next step

Ready to talk it through with a dentist? Book online or call the office closest to you.

Frequently asked questions

Can stress cause teeth grinding?
Yes. The ADA and MedlinePlus both list stress as a common trigger.

Do kids grind their teeth?
The ADA says many children do, and many outgrow it.

Is grinding linked to jaw pain?
It can be. See What causes jaw pain?

Sources

  1. ADA MouthHealthy – Teeth Grinding
  2. MedlinePlus – Bruxism

Last reviewed: November 3, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist)

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