Don’t let teeth grinding take a toll on your oral health. Our dental team is extensively trained to provide comprehensive care, helping patients effectively manage and treat this condition.
What Is Teeth Grinding?
Teeth grinding, medically known as bruxism, is a common condition where a person unconsciously clenches or grinds their teeth, often during sleep or while awake.
Bruxism can manifest as forceful grinding, clenching, or gnashing of the teeth, and it may occur intermittently or become a habitual behavior.
Factors Leading to Teeth Grinding?
The exact causes of teeth grinding are not always clear, and it can result from a combination of factors. Some of the potential causes and contributing factors of teeth grinding include:
Stress and Anxiety
Emotional stress, anxiety, or tension can lead to an increase in muscle activity, including clenching and grinding of the teeth, especially during sleep.
Sleep Disorders
Bruxism is more common in individuals with certain sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, where breathing interruptions during sleep can trigger teeth grinding.
Malocclusion (Misaligned Teeth)
Abnormal alignment of the upper and lower teeth can cause an uneven bite, leading to bruxism as the body tries to find a comfortable position for the jaw.
Missing Teeth or Improper Tooth Alignment
Gaps from missing teeth or teeth that do not fit together correctly may contribute to bruxism as the jaw seeks stability and balance during sleep.
Medications and Substances
Some medications, particularly those used to treat psychiatric conditions, can have side effects like teeth grinding. Additionally, excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption may exacerbate the problem.
We Are Preferred
Providers For:
Comprehensive Care for Teeth Grinding
At Coolamon Dental Centre, our dedicated dental team conducts thorough examinations to identify the underlying causes of teeth grinding in each patient. We understand the importance of personalised care and, as such, create customised treatment plans to address this condition effectively.
To protect teeth during sleep, we offer custom-made night guards and dental splints, providing a shield against the forces of grinding and preventing further dental damage.
When to Seek Professional Help
Knowing when to seek professional help for teeth grinding is crucial in preventing further dental complications and finding effective solutions. If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms, it’s essential to consult a dentist or healthcare professional promptly:
Persistent Teeth Grinding
If you notice that you regularly clench or grind your teeth, especially during sleep, or if your partner informs you of loud grinding noises, it’s time to seek professional evaluation.
Worn, Chipped, or Fractured Teeth
Excessive teeth grinding can lead to tooth wear, chipping, or fractures. If you observe these dental signs, consult a dentist for a comprehensive assessment.
Jaw Pain or Soreness
Frequent teeth grinding can strain the jaw muscles, leading to discomfort or soreness around the jaw area. Seeking professional help can address the underlying cause of this pain.
Headaches or Earaches
Bruxism may cause headaches or earaches, as the pressure from clenching or grinding can radiate to these areas. Consulting a healthcare professional can help identify the source of your discomfort.
Increased Tooth Sensitivity
Grinding can wear down the tooth enamel, leading to increased tooth sensitivity. If you notice heightened sensitivity, it’s essential to get a dental evaluation.
Sleep Disturbances
If you experience sleep disturbances or wake up with a tired or tense jaw, a healthcare professional can help assess if bruxism is affecting your sleep quality.
Professional Dental Treatments for Bruxism
At Coolamon Dental Centre, we understand the impact of bruxism on dental health, and that’s why we are committed to providing a comprehensive array of treatment options.
Custom Night Guards and Dental Splints
At Coolamon Dental Centre, we offer custom-made night guards to protect your teeth from the forces of grinding during sleep. These specialised dental devices create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, reducing the impact of clenching and grinding and preventing further dental damage.
Orthodontic Adjustments
In some cases, malocclusion (misaligned teeth) can contribute to bruxism. Orthodontic treatments, such as braces or clear aligners, can be utilised to correct the alignment of teeth and improve the bite, potentially alleviating teeth grinding caused by improper tooth positioning.
Dental Restorations
For individuals with severe tooth wear or damage due to bruxism, dental restorations may be recommended. Dental crowns, veneers, or dental bonding can restore the shape and function of the affected teeth, providing protection and support against grinding forces.
Occlusal Adjustments
In specific situations, our dental experts may perform occlusal adjustments, also known as bite adjustments. This involves carefully reshaping the surfaces of certain teeth to create a more harmonious and balanced bite. A properly aligned bite can reduce stress on the jaw joints and muscles, potentially lessening teeth grinding tendencies.
What our patients say
Where to find us
Coolamon Dental Centre
56A Mornington Pkwy,
Ellenbrook WA 6069
Tel: (08) 9296 9970
Booking:
You can book an appointment with us online or call us at 9296 9970. Please note your dental appointment is considered confirmed at the time of booking. We have reserved the time with our dentists, dental assistants and hygienists, especially for you. We will contact you prior to your scheduled appointment with a courtesy reminder but ultimately it is your responsibility to ensure that you arrive on time for your appointment. We know that life can get in the way and if you need to reschedule, please give us at least one business day’s notice and we will be happy to find a time that better suits you.