What is Teeth Grinding?
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, usually during sleep. It can also occur during the day due to stress or jaw tension.
Common signs include:
Worn or flattened teeth
Jaw pain, stiffness, or clicking
Headaches, especially in the morning
Earache or facial pain
Disrupted sleep
Untreated bruxism can lead to serious dental problems and affect TMJ health, posture, and holistic well-being.
Causes of Teeth Grinding
Stress and Anxiety: High stress levels can trigger jaw clenching during sleep or daytime.
TMJ Disorders: Misalignment or dysfunction in the jaw joint can increase bruxism.
Sleep Disorders: Sleep apnea or snoring can worsen teeth grinding.
Lifestyle Factors: Excessive caffeine, alcohol, or smoking can contribute to bruxism.
Dental Misalignment: Crooked teeth or bite issues can lead to grinding.
Effects of Teeth Grinding
Dental Damage: Chipped, cracked, or worn teeth requiring restorations.
Jaw Pain: Increased tension in TMJ muscles, potentially causing chronic pain.
Headaches: Often tension-type headaches caused by jaw strain.
Sleep Disruption: Grinding can disturb your own and your partner’s sleep.
Holistic Health Impact: Chronic pain and sleep deprivation affect overall wellness.
Treatment Options for Teeth Grinding
At Pain Free Dentists Sydney, we provide several effective solutions:
Custom Night Guards: Protect teeth from grinding during sleep.
TMJ Therapy: Relieves jaw tension and addresses underlying joint issues.
Stress Management: Relaxation techniques, counseling, and exercises.
Botox Therapy: Reduces overactive jaw muscles in severe cases.
Lifestyle Modifications: Reducing caffeine, alcohol, and practicing jaw relaxation.
Preventing and Managing Bruxism
Maintain good sleep hygiene and stress management.
Regular dental check-ups to monitor wear and address alignment issues.
Jaw exercises and stretches to relieve tension.
Consider TMJ or bite assessment if grinding is persistent.
Contact Pain Free Dentists Sydney
If you experience teeth grinding, jaw pain, or headaches, early treatment can prevent long-term damage and improve your quality of life.
Call (02) 9558 8988, email info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au, or book online to schedule your consultation.