If you live alone and don’t have a roommate to warn you about your teeth grinding at night, you can recognize bruxism by these clear signals your body gives you in the morning: if you wake up with a sharp, dull headache in your temples and in front of your ears; if your jaw muscles (and cheeks) feel tired, stiff, and painful as if you’ve been chewing gum all night; if you hear a “clicking” sound from your jaw joint when you open your mouth, or if your jaw shifts to one side when opening, it means you’re grinding your teeth at night. Also, if you look at your teeth in the mirror and see that the tips of your front teeth are worn down, chipped, and your gums are receding, this is definite evidence of chronic bruxism.
How can I tell on my own if I’m clenching my teeth at night, and what are the clearest signs of bruxism?
Updated on: June 11, 2026