Teeth Grinding

Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth. It can happen while you sleep, when you may not be aware of it, or during the day, often when concentrating, exercising or under stress. Over time it can damage teeth and strain the jaw muscles and joints.

Common causes and triggers include stress and anxiety, sleep disorders such as sleep apnoea, caffeine, alcohol, smoking, some medications and an uneven bite. Often there is more than one factor involved.

Signs include:

• Waking with a sore jaw, tired face muscles or headaches
• Worn, flattened, chipped or cracked teeth
• Tooth sensitivity
• Clicking, locking or limited opening of the jaw
• A partner hearing you grind at night

We check for signs of grinding at every check-up at our Yamanto clinic.

Yes. Grinding can wear teeth down, cause chips and cracks, break fillings and crowns, and lead to sensitivity. In severe cases, teeth can fracture and may need a crown, root canal or extraction.

Yes. Grinding and clenching overwork the jaw muscles, which can cause morning headaches, facial pain, earache-like pain and problems with the jaw joint (TMJ), such as clicking, locking or difficulty opening.

The most common treatment is a custom-made occlusal splint or night guard, which protects your teeth and relaxes the jaw muscles. We may also suggest ways to reduce triggers, such as managing stress and limiting caffeine and alcohol, and treat any damaged teeth.

A night guard is a thin, custom-fitted appliance worn over your teeth while you sleep. It acts as a protective barrier so the teeth grind against the guard instead of each other, and can reduce strain on the jaw muscles and joints.

Yes. Store-bought guards are bulky and do not fit well, which can make them uncomfortable and sometimes worsen clenching. A custom guard is made from an accurate impression of your teeth, so it is thinner, more comfortable and more effective.

Treatment for teeth grinding can be very affordable, and in some cases simple measures cost nothing at all. The cost of a custom splint depends on the type needed. We will give you a quote after your assessment, and we can process eligible claims on the spot via HICAPS.

Health fund rebates vary depending on your fund and level of cover. We accept all health funds and can process your claim on the spot.

Yes. Grinding is quite common in young children and often stops as adult teeth come through. We keep an eye on it at their check-ups and will advise if treatment is needed. See our children’s dentistry page.

There can be a link. Grinding at night is sometimes associated with disturbed breathing during sleep. If you snore, wake unrefreshed or feel tired during the day, let us know so we can help arrange further investigation.

Yes. Stress and anxiety are among the most common triggers for both daytime clenching and night-time grinding. Relaxation techniques, regular exercise and good sleep habits can help, alongside a night guard to protect your teeth.

Try to notice when you clench, for example when working at a desk, driving or exercising. Keep your lips together and teeth slightly apart, relax your jaw, and set reminders if needed. Awareness is often the first step to breaking the habit.

Muscle-relaxing injections are sometimes used for severe cases of bruxism, but a custom splint is usually the first line of treatment as it directly protects the teeth. We will discuss the most suitable options for you.

A custom night guard often lasts several years, depending on how heavily you grind. Bring it to your check-ups so we can check the fit and look for wear.

Rinse it after each use, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and cool water, and store it dry in its case. Avoid hot water, which can warp it, and keep it away from pets.

Untreated grinding can lead to worn and cracked teeth, broken fillings, gum recession, jaw joint problems and ongoing headaches. Treating it early is usually simpler and much more affordable than repairing the damage later.

Tranquility Dentistry is located at Shop 7, 428 Warwick Road, Yamanto. We help patients from Ipswich, Raceview, Flinders View, Deebing Heights, Ripley, Springfield, Redbank, Amberley, Willowbank, Brassall, Karalee and surrounding areas.

Call (07) 3060 4724, email info@tranquilitydentistry.com.au or book online. Mention any headaches, jaw pain or grinding when you book so we can allow time to assess your teeth, muscles and jaw joints.