Jaw Clenching
Sustained tightening of the jaw muscles — often unconscious — that can cause tension, headaches and tooth wear.
Overview
Jaw clenching — where the teeth press together strongly without sliding — is a close cousin of bruxism. Unlike grinding, it often happens during the day, especially during periods of focus or stress. Many patients discover they clench only when asked to pay attention to their jaw.
Long-term clenching loads the muscles and TMJ, and can produce morning headaches, facial fatigue, and tooth sensitivity without the obvious grinding wear patterns.
A bite assessment and a personalised plan — combining awareness coaching, physiotherapy where useful, and a night guard — typically reduces symptoms significantly.
Common symptoms
- Jaw muscle tightness or fatigue
- Headaches on waking
- Tooth sensitivity or enamel wear
- Aching cheeks or temples
- Clenching noticed during the day
Common causes
- Stress and anxiety
- Focused desk work and screen use
- Bite imbalance
- Sleep disturbance
- Caffeine overuse
Our approach
Comprehensive examination
We begin with a focused clinical examination, digital X-rays where indicated, and a full medical and dental history to build a complete picture of your symptoms.
Transparent diagnosis
You receive a clear explanation of what we find, shown on-screen with intra-oral imaging so you can see exactly what we see — no jargon, no pressure.
Options-based treatment plan
We present all suitable treatment options with realistic outcomes, timings and written costs so you can make an informed decision at your own pace.
Related conditions
Teeth Grinding
Involuntary clenching or grinding — often during sleep — that can wear teeth and strain the jaw.
TMJ Pain
Pain or dysfunction in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles — often multifactorial and highly treatable.
Tooth Sensitivity
A short, sharp pain when teeth meet hot, cold, sweet or acidic triggers — usually treatable once the cause is known.
Jaw Clicking
Clicking or popping when opening the jaw comes from the TMJ — often benign, but sometimes worth assessing.
Get a clear answer, without pressure
Our team will examine, explain and give you all suitable options — with written costs you can take home.
Save 50% on every treatment
From £20/month. Add family for £10/month each. No joining fee.
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