03/16/2026
Not every dental problem starts with a cavity.
Sometimes the damage comes from years of grinding and clenching-something many patients don’t even realize they’re doing.
This patient presented with discomfort when chewing and intermittent sensitivity. The cause? A vertical fracture in the tooth, often associated with chronic bruxism (grinding).
When excessive forces are placed on teeth over time, tiny stress lines can develop. Eventually, these can progress into full vertical fractures.
Signs you might be grinding your teeth:
• Jaw soreness or tightness
• Tooth sensitivity when biting
• Small cracks or fractures in teeth
• Worn or flattened chewing surfaces
• Headaches, especially in the morning
In many cases, nightguards and bite management can help protect teeth from further damage.
Your teeth are strong—but they aren’t designed to handle years of excessive force.
If you notice symptoms like these, it’s worth having your bite evaluated.
