Can Teeth Grinding Cause Permanent Damage? Yes—Here’s How

A lot of people grind their teeth without even realizing it—often at night while sleeping or during stressful moments. On the surface, it might not seem like a big deal. After all, it’s just a little clenching, right? But over time, grinding (also called bruxism) can do real damage to your teeth, jaw, and even your overall comfort.

Think about the eraser on the end of a pencil. Use it once or twice and it looks fine. But if you keep rubbing it on paper over and over, the eraser eventually wears down, flattens, and even cracks. Teeth grinding works the same way—and the effects can be permanent if it isn’t addressed.

What Grinding Does to Teeth

The most obvious damage happens to the teeth themselves. Persistent grinding can:

Wear down enamel – the protective layer that keeps teeth strong.

Cause cracks or chips – especially in teeth already weakened by fillings.

Flatten the biting surfaces – which can make chewing less effective.

Expose the inner tooth – leading to sensitivity or even infection.

Once enamel is gone, it doesn’t grow back. That’s why untreated grinding can leave teeth permanently vulnerable.

Beyond the Teeth: Jaw and Head Pain

Grinding doesn’t just affect your teeth—it takes a toll on your whole jaw system. The constant pressure can strain the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), leading to soreness, stiffness, and even clicking or popping when you open your mouth. Many people also wake up with headaches or notice pain radiating into their neck and shoulders.

Can the Damage Be Stopped?

The short answer: yes. While existing enamel loss can’t be reversed, treatment can stop further damage and protect your teeth. Custom nightguards are one of the most effective solutions. Worn while you sleep, they act as a cushion between the teeth, absorbing pressure from clenching and grinding.

As a prosthodontist, Dr. Thomas Lefler also has specialized training in restoring worn or damaged teeth. If grinding has already caused cracks, chips, or uneven bite surfaces, he can repair the damage and rebuild a healthy, functional smile with solutions like crowns, veneers, or bridges.

Protecting Your Smile in Hot Springs Village

At Lefler Dental in Hot Springs Village, AR, Dr. Thomas Lefler combines general dentistry with advanced prosthodontics to help patients both prevent and repair the effects of teeth grinding. Whether you’ve noticed flat or chipped teeth, morning headaches, or jaw soreness, it’s worth getting checked.

Schedule a visit with Lefler Dental today to protect your teeth from permanent damage and keep your smile strong for years to come.

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Categorised in: Bruxism, Custom Mouthguards, Dental Tips, TMJ Treatment