What are the negative effects of teeth grinding?

Teeth grinding (or bruxism) can have long-term, devastating effects on the overall health of your teeth. The grinding and clenching motion wears down the teeth making them smaller and permanently sensitive. It also destroys enamel which makes teeth more prone to cavities. Aside from damage, teeth clenching/grinding can cause facial pain, headaches, earaches, pain/stiffness in the jaw, and disruption of sleep.