Do You Grind Your Dentures at Night? Signs of Nocturnal Clenching and What to Do
- michaelgrishindent
- Jun 24
- 3 min read
Nocturnal clenching—also called sleep bruxism—is often associated with natural teeth. But did you know that denture wearers can also grind their dentures while sleeping? At Grishin Denture Specialist, we often see patients in Spokane dealing with cracked bases, worn denture teeth, and sore facial muscles—all due to nighttime clenching.
If left untreated, this unconscious habit can dramatically reduce the lifespan of your dentures and lead to pain, fatigue, and inflammation in the jaw and gums.
Common Signs You’re Grinding Your Dentures at Night
Not sure if you’re clenching or grinding in your sleep? Look out for these early warning signs:
Flat or worn denture teeth
Microfractures in the denture base
Morning jaw soreness or headaches
Loose or shifting dentures upon waking
Facial muscle fatigue or tension
Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint
In some cases, patients may also develop denture stomatitis or inflammation from the increased pressure and friction—especially if the fit is already off.
What Causes Nocturnal Denture Clenching?
Sleep bruxism is typically linked to:
Stress or anxiety
Misaligned bite (malocclusion)
Loose-fitting or poorly balanced dentures
Sleep apnea or breathing issues
Caffeine or alcohol consumption before bed
When dentures don’t fit snugly or the occlusion (bite surface) is uneven, the jaw tries to compensate by clenching, even subconsciously. Over time, this can lead to accelerated wear, loss of stability, and discomfort—making routine activities like chewing or speaking more difficult.
How Spokane Denture Patients Can Stop Nighttime Grinding
If you suspect nighttime clenching, don’t wait for your dentures to break or your jaw to hurt. Here’s what you can do:
🔹 Schedule a Fit Evaluation
Visit a trusted denturist in Spokane to assess your current dentures. Denturist Michael Grishin can check for signs of wear, bite imbalance, or improper fit.
🔹 Get a Custom Nightguard
A soft, custom-made nightguard designed specifically for denture wearers can cushion the bite and protect your appliance. These are often thinner and more comfortable than typical mouthguards.
🔹 Consider a Reline or Replacement
If your dentures no longer fit properly due to gum or bone changes, a reline or new set may be necessary to restore comfort and stability.
🔹 Manage Stress and Sleep Quality
Stress management techniques and improving sleep hygiene can also reduce clenching frequency. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or limiting stimulants before bed can help.
Do You Have to Sleep With Dentures In?
Not always. In fact, removing your dentures at night is often recommended to reduce tissue irritation and allow the gums to rest. However, some patients need to wear them due to TMJ support, medical conditions, or anatomical reasons. Your denture clinic near me can help you determine the best routine for your specific needs.
Conclusion
Denture-related infections—such as stomatitis, oral thrush, and angular cheilitis—are common but highly preventable. Early warning signs like redness, irritation, or soreness should never be ignored. By maintaining proper denture hygiene, scheduling regular evaluations, and managing underlying health conditions, you can significantly reduce your risk of infection and discomfort.
Whether you're new to dentures or you've been wearing them for years, a proper fit is essential for comfort, chewing, and even gum enjoyment. At Grishin Denture Specialist, we serve patients in Spokane, Spokane Valley, Cheney, Deer Park, and Liberty Lake—offering expert care and affordable dentures in Spokane tailored to support long-term oral health and function.
If your dentures feel loose, cause irritation, or shift while chewing, Denturist Michael Grishin—a trusted denturist near me—can evaluate your fit and recommend a reline, adjustment, or a brand-new set of dentures in Spokane. For those looking for a dependable Spokane denture clinic or denture clinic near me, we’re here to help protect your smile—and your health.
Learn what experts say about wearing dentures while sleeping and how to maintain their health and comfort.
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