Teeth grinding, medically known as bruxism, is a condition where you unconsciously clench or grind your teeth. This can occur during sleep (sleep bruxism) or while awake (awake bruxism). Many Australians suffer from bruxism without realising the long-term damage it can cause to their teeth, jaw, and overall oral health.
Left untreated, chronic teeth grinding can lead to worn enamel, cracked teeth, jaw disorders (TMJ), and persistent headaches. Early intervention is crucial to prevent irreversible damage.
Psychological stress is the leading cause of bruxism. Work pressure, financial concerns, and emotional tension often manifest as unconscious jaw clenching, particularly during sleep.
Sleep apnoea, snoring, and disrupted sleep patterns are strongly associated with nocturnal teeth grinding. Addressing underlying sleep issues often improves bruxism symptoms.
Malocclusion (misaligned teeth or jaw) can trigger grinding as your mouth attempts to find a comfortable resting position. Orthodontic assessment may be recommended in these cases.
Excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption, smoking, and certain medications can increase the likelihood of teeth grinding. Recreation drug use is also a significant risk factor.
The gold standard treatment for bruxism. We create custom-fitted acrylic splints that cushion your teeth and prevent grinding damage. Unlike over-the-counter options, professionally fitted splints ensure proper bite alignment and superior protection.
These appliances are typically worn during sleep and can significantly reduce jaw muscle activity, protecting both your teeth and jaw joints from excessive force.
When malocclusion is the root cause, we may recommend selective reshaping of tooth surfaces or orthodontic treatment to correct bite alignment. This addresses the underlying structural issue rather than just managing symptoms.
For severe cases unresponsive to conventional treatment, therapeutic Botox injections into the masseter muscles can reduce grinding intensity. This FDA-approved treatment temporarily weakens the jaw muscles responsible for clenching, providing relief for 3-6 months per treatment.
We may refer you to specialists for cognitive behavioural therapy, relaxation techniques, or stress counselling. Biofeedback devices can also help you become aware of and control jaw clenching during waking hours.
Existing damage from grinding may require crowns, onlays, or bonding to restore tooth structure and function. This is typically done after implementing protective measures to prevent further damage.
If you experience any of the following, schedule an assessment as soon as possible:
Early intervention can prevent costly dental repairs and long-term complications. A thorough examination will help us determine the severity of your bruxism and create a personalised treatment plan.
Don't let bruxism compromise your dental health. Our experienced team provides comprehensive assessment and customised solutions to stop teeth grinding and relieve jaw pain.
Dentists are experts in all of the structures that have to do with your mouth – teeth, gums, your facial profile and your jaw are all included. At Ocean Smiles, our comprehensive evaluation process also assesses the health of your jaw joint. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ), or jaw joint, is incredibly strong. Since it can create a tremendous amount of pressure, it can also be subject to pain and other problems. We provide the solutions you need to resolve your jaw-related issues.
Many people find that their TMJ pain worsens in periods of stress. If that’s the case for you, some stress management techniques may be all you need to stop yourself from doing the clenching or grinding movements that cause your TMJ. Specific exercises to loosen your jaw muscles may also be of assistance.
An occlusal splint can be custom-created for you to address bruxism, also known as teeth grinding. A splint looks similar to a mouthguard that is worn for sport. It creates a barrier between your teeth so that you can’t grind them. They can be rubber or plastic depending on the level of protection that you require.
These customised appliances require a single appointment. We’ll take impressions of your teeth, then send them to our laboratory to have your splint created. When it’s returned to us, you can pick it up and start wearing it at night.
If you’re plagued by frequent headaches or can’t eat properly because of TMJ discomfort, there is a better way. Contact Brisbane CBD Dental Clinic today to book your consultation for TMJ treatment Brisbane CBD!