Bruxism
Treatment
Sore Jaw In The Morning? There Are Ways To Manage It
Grinding or clenching your teeth can wear down tooth surfaces and leave your jaw muscles aching. Our friendly team looks at what may be driving it, then walks you through the options that suit your dental health and your day-to-day life.
What Bruxism Involves
Bruxism is the word dentists use for grinding or clenching that sits outside normal chewing. Your upper and lower teeth press or slide against each other, often with enough force to cause tooth wear over time. The Australian Dental Association notes that this can also affect the jaw joint, also known as the temporomandibular joint or TMJ.
Many people have no idea it is happening. A partner may mention grinding noises at night. Better Health Channel reports that around five per cent of people grind regularly.
Common signs include a tight jaw on waking, headaches around the temples, tooth sensitivity, chipped edges, and fillings that keep breaking. Severe tooth wear can also change how your smile looks. If any of that sounds familiar, it is worth having your teeth and bite checked.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between sleep bruxism and awake bruxism?
Sleep bruxism happens while you are asleep, with no conscious control over it. It is the most common type we see. Awake bruxism is daytime clenching, usually silent, and often noticed while concentrating or driving.
What causes teeth grinding?
There is rarely one single reason. Emotional stress and anxiety are reported most often. Other factors may play a part, including misaligned teeth, mouth breathing, alcohol consumption late in the evening, certain medications, and sleep disorders.
Can grinding be linked to sleep apnoea?
It can. The Australian Dental Association notes that sleep bruxism is sometimes linked with obstructive sleep apnoea. Where that seems likely, our dentist may suggest a medical review alongside your dental care.
What happens at my first appointment?
We look at your teeth, your bite, and the jaw muscles on each side. We will ask about your sleep, your stress levels, and any jaw pain you have noticed. A plan is then put together for your situation.
What are night guards and how do they work?
Night guards, sometimes called occlusal splints, are worn while you sleep. They sit over the teeth as a protective barrier and may help limit further wear. The Australian Dental Association describes them as a way to protect teeth and ease discomfort.
Will I need to wear one permanently?
That depends on whether the grinding settles. Some people use a guard only through busy periods, while others wear one long term. We review your oral health at each visit and adjust the plan.
Are there ways to reduce bruxism without a guard?
Stress management and relaxation exercises can help, particularly with awake bruxism. Physical therapy for the facial muscles is another option. In some cases, a doctor may consider muscle relaxants. These sit alongside dental treatment rather than replacing it.
Can orthodontic treatment help with grinding?
Where the bite is part of the picture, orthodontic treatment may be discussed as one option. It is not right for everyone, so our dentist will talk through what your assessment shows before anything is planned.
What if my teeth are already worn?
Dental corrections may be needed to rebuild what has been lost. Depending on the extent, this can involve fillings, crowns, or root canals. Your dentist will explain which dental procedures apply to you.
What happens if bruxism is left untreated?
Tooth wear builds slowly rather than all at once. Over time, the teeth can shorten, the bite can change, and jaw symptoms may continue. Having it looked at early gives you more options.
How much does treatment cost?
It depends on what your case involves. You will get a written quote after the assessment. HICAPS is available for on-the-spot health fund claiming, and the Child Dental Benefit Scheme applies for eligible children.
Where are you located and is there parking?
We are conveniently located on Queen Street in St Marys. Free street parking is at the front, with additional free public parking at the rear via West Lane.
Book an appointment with our St Marys team today.
Get in touch
We would love to hear from you! Whether you have questions about our services, want to schedule an appointment, or just need some advice on dental care, we're here to help.
