Dentists across the UK have reported seeing an increasing number of younger patients with dental damage linked to bruxism, the collective term for jaw movements including clenching, grinding, bracing and thrusting. The condition can occur during sleep or while awake and can be mild or severe enough to damage teeth and affect daily life.
Published on 12 September 2026, the reporting draws on patient experiences and comments from dental specialists. Some studies cited in the source material suggest nearly one in four people experience bruxism, although many do not realise they do it until symptoms emerge.
The British Dental Association has said there is anecdotal evidence that bruxism is becoming more common, but has not given specific figures to quantify the change.
People with bruxism may discover the condition because of visible or symptomatic changes. Typical signs include:
Some patients do not realise they grind their teeth until a partner reports it, their dentist identifies wear on a 3D scan, or they begin to experience persistent pain. Dr Simon Cove, a practising dentist who uses 3D scanning to assess wear, says patients often are unaware until dental damage is visible. He warns that in extreme cases treatment can be complex and expensive, although such severe outcomes are relatively uncommon and usually develop over years.
Many clinicians and psychological practitioners link teeth grinding to stress and trauma. Psychotherapist Rahi Popat reports that an increasing number of his clients, particularly younger adults, notice teeth grinding during or after stressful periods.
Trauma and stress activate the body's fight-or-flight response, increasing heart rate and muscle tension. Because the jaw is connected to the nervous system via major cranial nerves, this tension can manifest as clenching or grinding. For some people, nocturnal grinding serves as a way to discharge stress accumulated during waking hours.
Prof Frank Lobbezoo, a researcher on bruxism mentioned in the reporting, also notes that bruxism can have protective or functional roles. Movement of the jaw stimulates saliva production by the major salivary glands, which helps clean the mouth and contributes to digestion. Preliminary research has also suggested a possible cognitive benefit from chewing, though the reporting does not provide detailed study results.
Dental sleep specialists warn that bruxism can sometimes be a response to breathing interruptions during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) occurs when the airway becomes partially or fully blocked, and grinding may be an attempt to move the jaw and restore airflow. Dr Aditi Desai, president of the British Society of Dental Sleep Medicine, stresses the importance of considering serious underlying causes such as OSA rather than treating symptoms alone.
Clinicians emphasise both symptom management and investigating root causes. Dentist Riaz Yar describes severe bruxism as a "biopsychosocial" issue that requires assessment of sleep patterns, diet, exercise, medication, weight and other health factors. He recommends a multidisciplinary approach tailored to the individual.
Common interventions reported include:
Some dentists also use muscle-relaxing injections. The article recounts one patient, Ella, who paid privately for Botox injections into her masseter muscles. She reports reduced jaw tension, improved sleep and less facial pain; the effect is described as lasting around three to four months. The reporting notes Botox injections for bruxism are not routinely offered on the NHS.
Dr Desai cautions that issuing a mouthguard without investigating why a patient grinds their teeth can miss important diagnoses. Identifying treatable causes such as sleep apnoea may change management and reduce risks to the teeth and overall health.
For many patients, addressing lifestyle factors and mental health can reduce grinding. Ella, who described having high-functioning anxiety, said combining Botox with meditation has helped her sleep and energy levels and encouraged her to look for the underlying triggers of her bruxism.
Where bruxism has led to severe tooth wear, restorative dental treatment can be required. Dr Cove warns that rebuilding worn or fractured teeth and replacing failed dental work can be complex and costly. The reporting emphasises these severe outcomes are not the norm and usually take years to develop.
The source outlines observable signs to watch for and a range of approaches clinicians may take. It also highlights the value of a thorough assessment to rule out or manage contributing conditions like sleep apnoea and to plan appropriate multidisciplinary care.
The article notes anecdotal reports from dentists of a rise in younger patients with bruxism but does not include new national statistics quantifying the change. While studies are mentioned that estimate prevalence and explore links with stress, the reporting does not provide detailed trial data or specific research results.
Clinicians interviewed in the reporting advocate for:
People concerned about possible teeth grinding should raise symptoms with their dentist or primary care clinician so the cause can be investigated and an appropriate management plan put in place.
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