Clenching And Grinding
Get in touch with us in 4 simple ways
Oxnard Dentist
Welcome to Channel Islands Family Dental
What are
Clenching & Grinding

Grinding or clenching of teeth, medically known as Teeth Grinding or bruxism, is a common issue. Grinding or clenching could be conscious or unconscious. Most people grind or clench occasionally, which could cause no harm, but when Teeth Grinding occurs on a regular basis, it can lead to damaging oral tissues causing other oral health complications.
Why do people clench or grind their teeth: the reasons for teeth grinding is not always clear and can vary from patient to patient. At channel Islands Family Dental Office, our experts work tirelessly to diagnose the physical, psychological or genetic factors that can cause bruxism.
Lifestyle habits such as smoking, drinking alcohol, recreational drugs or consuming a lot of caffeine can also cause night grinding or clenching.
Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea can also be one of the reasons for bruxism.
How to diagnose Teeth Grinding: Teeth Grinding or jaw clenching, usually happens during sleep and is most likely noticed by parents or siblings. However, having a constant dull headache or sore jaw after waking up could be symptoms of Teeth Grinding (Bruxism). If you think you or someone in your family may be grinding their teeth in sleep, talk to your Oxnard Dentist. An Oxnard Dentist specialist can physically examine your mouth for any signs of Teeth Grinding, such as tenderness in the jaw and wear and tear, to rule out other causes like ear infections.
Bruxism is broadly classified into two types

Awake Bruxism: grinding or clenching of teeth caused during the day while being awake. It is usually related to emotional issues, such as feeling anxious, stressed or angry.

Sleep Bruxism: On the other hand, when someone grind or clench their teeth while being asleep. Our specialist at Channel Islands family dental office, explains our patients since they asleep they are unaware of the condition, and an lead to jaw pains and other problems related to oral health. In some kids, grinding happens due to the improper alignment of upper and lower jaws. In some cases, it can happen as a response to teething or pain in the ear. In adult or young children, stress and anxiety is generally the cause for teeth grinding or jaw clenching.
Popular Service
Our Oxnard Office
Clenching And Grinding
Why choose Channel Islands Family Dental Office for your Clenching & Grinding In Oxnard?
Our team of experienced dental professionals are dedicated to creating dental crowns that are as beautiful as they are functional.
Symptoms of clenching and teeth grinding in Oxnard


Teeth grinding or clenching usually happens during sleep that makes it difficult for a patient to identify their symptoms. However, signs that you may look for includes:
- Disrupted sleep.
- Headaches or facial pain after waking up.
- Pain in the ear.
- Wear or enamel loss.
- Painful or loose teeth.
- Soreness in jaw muscles.
- Tooth fracture by excessive pressure.
- TMJ sounds like clicking or popping.
- Pain while chewing.
- Lock jaw.