Grinding & Clenching
Nighttime grinding and daytime clenching overload the jaw joints and muscles.
Jaw pain, clicking, morning headaches and worn teeth are often signs of clenching, grinding or TMJ strain. We find out what is overworking your jaw and treat the cause, not just the symptoms.


Signs to look for
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your lower jaw to your skull. When the muscles around them are strained by clenching, grinding or an uneven bite, you can feel it as jaw pain, headaches or tight facial muscles.
Many people grind their teeth at night without knowing it. Worn, chipped or sensitive teeth are often the first clue we see at an exam.
Common signs of TMJ strain
Why it happens
Several factors often combine, which is why we look at the whole picture.
Nighttime grinding and daytime clenching overload the jaw joints and muscles.
Stress often shows up as a tight jaw, clenched teeth and facial muscle tension.
Teeth that do not meet evenly can strain the joints every time you chew.
Grinding at night can be a sign of a restricted airway or disrupted sleep.
How we diagnose
An accurate diagnosis is the first step to lasting relief.
You tell us where it hurts, when it started and what makes it better or worse.
We check the joints, the muscles and how your teeth meet when you bite.
3D CBCT imaging shows the joints and bite in detail when the exam calls for it.
We explain the cause and recommend treatment, often starting with a custom night guard.
Treatment options
Most plans combine two or more of these, depending on the cause.
Relief for jaw pain, clicking and headaches caused by joint and muscle strain.
Learn moreProtect your teeth and ease pressure on the joints while you sleep.
Learn moreNon-invasive therapy that relaxes and re-balances overworked facial muscles.
Learn moreInvisalign or restorative care to even out the bite for long-term stability.
Learn moreGood to know
Still have a question? Our team is happy to help.
TMJ disorders can result from teeth grinding, jaw clenching, stress, bite misalignment, arthritis, trauma or muscle strain. Often several factors combine.
Many patients feel relief with a custom night guard because it reduces pressure on the jaw joints and protects the teeth from grinding. It is usually the first step in treatment.
It can be. Grinding wears enamel, chips edges and can crack teeth or make them sensitive. Catching it early protects your teeth and any dental work.
Book an evaluation if jaw pain, clicking or headaches keep coming back, if your jaw locks, or if you notice worn or chipped teeth.
Sometimes. Grinding at night can be linked to a restricted airway. Learn more about sleep apnea and airway health .
Green Apple Dental
Book a TMJ evaluation at our Fleetwood or Newton clinic. We will find what is straining your jaw and help you feel comfortable again.
New patients welcome
Give us a call or fill out the form and our team will get back to you shortly.
Patient reviews
“I wasn’t sure what to expect. But I was very pleased with all my care. The staff are amazing”
“Been going here for twelve years. They are the best”
“Took care of my six year old daughter so gently, she told me it’s the only place she wants to go”
“Honest, thorough and never pushy. Exactly what I want from a family dentist.”
“They fit me in the same day when I broke a tooth. Painless and fast.”
“Direct billing made it easy and the whole team is lovely.”
“I wasn’t sure what to expect. But I was very pleased with all my care. The staff are amazing”
“Been going here for twelve years. They are the best”
“Took care of my six year old daughter so gently, she told me it’s the only place she wants to go”
“Honest, thorough and never pushy. Exactly what I want from a family dentist.”
“They fit me in the same day when I broke a tooth. Painless and fast.”
“Direct billing made it easy and the whole team is lovely.”
Two locations
Conveniently located in Fleetwood and Newton, providing advanced dental care for Surrey families.
HoursGreen Apple Dental
8501 162 Street, Unit 108
Surrey, BC V4N 1B2
| Mon | 9am – 5pm |
|---|---|
| Tue | 9am – 7pm |
| Wed | 9am – 7pm |
| Thu | 8am – 4pm |
| Fri | 9am – 4pm |
| Sat | 9am – 3pm |
| Sun | Closed |
HoursGreen Apple Dental
12885 80 Avenue, Unit 106
Surrey, BC V3W 0E6
| Mon | 9am – 5pm |
|---|---|
| Tue | 8am – 4pm |
| Wed | 10am – 6pm |
| Thu | 10am – 6pm |
| Fri | 9am – 5pm |
| Sat | 9am – 3pm |
| Sun | Closed |
Need urgent dental care? Same-day emergency appointments at both clinics.