Detection and Diagnosis of Daytime Jaw Clenching

Clinical Signs and Symptoms

The British Journal of Anaesthesia recommends checking for muscle tenderness or hypertrophy in the masseter muscles, as well as excessive tooth wear facets on the chewing surfaces, to identify habitual clenching 1, 2
Individuals with jaw pain are more likely to experience daytime clenching episodes, with increased frequency of high-intensity and low-intensity clenching throughout the day, according to the British Journal of Anaesthesia 1, 3
The British Journal of Anaesthesia suggests that morning jaw fatigue or stiffness, as well as limited jaw opening or movement, can be indicative of daytime jaw clenching 1, 3
Persistent jaw pain or muscle tenderness, visible tooth wear or damage, and limited jaw opening or movement are all signs that may require professional evaluation, as recommended by the British Journal of Anaesthesia 1, 3

The diagnostic approach for daytime jaw clenching should include examination of the muscles of mastication for tenderness and trigger points, assessment of temporomandibular joint movement and sounds, and intraoral examination for tooth wear patterns and occlusion, according to the British Journal of Anaesthesia 1, 2