Grinding or clenching of the teeth usually occurs when a person is asleep. Sometimes, it can also take place while a person is awake. The grinding noise can be quite noticeable to others who are nearby.

What is going on in the body?

Clenching or grinding the teeth is a mechanism for release of emotional stress. When a person is awake, the action often occurs during anger, intense concentration, or physical exertion. The teeth grinding is unintentional and occurs at inappropriate times. The person is generally unaware of the teeth grinding.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Emotional stress and certain personality types are associated with teeth grinding. People with anger, pain, or frustration may start grinding their teeth. Aggressive, hurried, or overly competitive people may also experience teeth grinding. The grinding can also be caused by an abnormal alignment of the teeth or jaw. It is sometimes connected to drug and alcohol use. Teeth grinding is common in children when their teeth are coming in.