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HealthGlobal issues

Teeth grinding and clenching: How stress impacts your jaw

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Anna Schubert
June 10, 2026

Stress-related teeth grinding and jaw clenching can damage teeth, muscles and sleep. What causes 'bruxism' — and what helps?

When grinding your teeth and jaw, did you know that the pressure exerted can be equivalent to up to 480 kg — often totally unnoticed while you sleep! The consequences range from worn tooth enamel and jaw pain to headaches and neck problems. Research shows the brain and stress processing also play a big role here. Why Bruxism cannot simply be "unlearned,” what damage it can cause, and how splints, therapy, and targeted treatments can help.

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