Treatment for Grinding

What are the types of bruxism (grinding)?

Bruxism may happen when you are awake or asleep.

• Daytime bruxism: Jaw clenching and teeth grinding occur during the day and may be associated with stress and anxiety. Daytime bruxism alone may not need treatment, and stress management may help reduce the frequency and severity of this type of bruxism.
• Sleep bruxism: Teeth grinding occurs when sleeping, which may cause further problems as this is done subconsciously. This may also be associated with headaches.

Teeth grinding can cause a few complications:

• Fractured restorations or teeth.
• Issues with TMJ (temporomandibular joint) muscles, head and neck
• Potential loss of teeth due to cracks.
• Worn teeth.

What are the potential symptoms of bruxism?

• Sleep disturbance
• Headaches or facial pain, especially when waking up in the morning.
• Sensitive teeth
• Sore jaw muscles
• Teeth fractures
• Wear facets on teeth
• Jaw locking and clicking

Treatment for Grinding At Geelong West Dental

Treatment for bruxism may require a multidisciplinary approach.

There are no single methods to prevent teeth grinding. Our dentists may fabricate a custom-made nightguard for you to wear when sleeping at night. This may protect your teeth and jaw muscles from the force created during grinding.

Stress may also be a factor. Potential ways to reduce stress include:

• Exercise.
• Therapy as recommended by your medical doctor.

Assessment via consultation with our local, experienced dentists will be needed before diagnosis and treatment for bruxism (grinding) can be recommended.

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