Ear, nose and throat
Medicines for Bruxism (teeth grinding)
Grinding or clenching the teeth, often during sleep, which can cause jaw pain, headaches and tooth wear — managed with a dental guard and by tackling stress and triggers.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Bruxism (teeth grinding)?
Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching the teeth, which often happens unconsciously during sleep but can also occur when awake. Many people are unaware they do it, and it is sometimes first noticed by a partner (from the grinding noise) or a dentist (from tooth wear).
- How it is treated: Treatment aims to protect the teeth and jaw and reduce the grinding by addressing its triggers.
- Self-care: Using a dentist-provided night guard, managing stress and practising relaxation, keeping good sleep habits, and reducing alcohol, caffeine and stimulants (especially in the evening) all help reduce grinding and protect the teeth.
- When to seek help: See a dentist if you have worn, sensitive or damaged teeth, jaw pain or tightness, or headaches on waking, or if a partner notices grinding.
What it is
Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching the teeth, which often happens unconsciously during sleep but can also occur when awake. Many people are unaware they do it, and it is sometimes first noticed by a partner (from the grinding noise) or a dentist (from tooth wear). Over time it can cause worn, sensitive or damaged teeth, jaw muscle pain and tightness, jaw joint (TMJ) problems, headaches (often in the temples), earache and disturbed sleep. It is linked to stress and anxiety, sleep problems (including sleep apnoea), certain medicines and stimulants, and lifestyle factors such as alcohol and caffeine. In children it is common and usually harmless, often outgrown.
How it is treated
Treatment aims to protect the teeth and jaw and reduce the grinding by addressing its triggers. A dentist can provide a custom mouthguard or splint to wear at night, which cushions the teeth and reduces damage. Because stress is a common driver, stress-management techniques, relaxation and good sleep habits often help, and reducing alcohol, caffeine and stimulants before bed can reduce night-time grinding. Treating any underlying issue, such as sleep apnoea, is important where relevant. Awareness and relaxation exercises help daytime clenching. Any tooth damage is treated by the dentist. For most people, a combination of a dental guard and reducing triggers manages it well.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Bruxism (teeth grinding)
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Using a dentist-provided night guard, managing stress and practising relaxation, keeping good sleep habits, and reducing alcohol, caffeine and stimulants (especially in the evening) all help reduce grinding and protect the teeth.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a dentist if you have worn, sensitive or damaged teeth, jaw pain or tightness, or headaches on waking, or if a partner notices grinding. See a GP if stress, anxiety or a sleep problem such as sleep apnoea may be contributing.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Bruxism (teeth grinding): frequently asked questions
What causes teeth grinding?
It is often linked to stress and anxiety, sleep problems (including sleep apnoea), certain medicines and stimulants, and factors like alcohol and caffeine. Many people grind their teeth unconsciously during sleep.
How can I stop grinding my teeth?
A dentist-provided night guard protects the teeth, while managing stress, improving sleep, and cutting down on alcohol and caffeine reduce the grinding itself. Treating any underlying sleep or health issue also helps.
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Oral Health Foundation guidance
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