What Is Teeth Grinding?
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, often during sleep. It can lead to a range of dental and health issues if left untreated, including tooth wear, jaw pain, headaches, and even cracked teeth.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Many people don’t know they grind their teeth until symptoms appear. Here’s what to watch for:
Flattened, chipped, or worn-down teeth
Jaw pain or tightness, especially in the morning
Clicking or popping of the jaw (TMJ)
Headaches, particularly around the temples
Tooth sensitivity
Earaches without infection
Disrupted sleep (yours or your partner’s)
Causes of Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding can be caused by several physical and emotional factors, including:
Stress and anxiety
Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea
Misaligned teeth or bite (malocclusion)
Lifestyle factors: excessive caffeine, alcohol, or smoking
Certain medications, including antidepressants
Neurological conditions, in rare cases
Why Bruxism Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Untreated bruxism can cause:
Permanent enamel loss
Cracked or fractured teeth
Gum recession
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction
Muscle pain in the face, neck, and shoulders
Poor sleep quality
Treatment Options at Pain Free Dentist Sydney
At Pain Free Dentist Sydney, we offer gentle and effective solutions for bruxism, tailored to the underlying cause:
Our treatments include:
Custom night guards to protect your teeth during sleep
Occlusal splints to reduce jaw muscle strain
Botox therapy to relax overactive jaw muscles (if indicated)
Bite correction or orthodontic adjustments
Stress management advice and sleep hygiene support
Home Care Tips for Relief
While professional treatment is essential, these at-home tips can help manage symptoms:
Apply a warm compress to relax the jaw muscles
Avoid chewing gum or hard foods
Practice jaw relaxation exercises
Cut back on caffeine and alcohol
Get support for stress or anxiety
🗓️ Ready to Stop Grinding Your Teeth?
If you’re waking up with jaw pain or noticing wear on your teeth, don’t wait — early intervention can prevent long-term damage.
👉 Call Pain Free Dentist Sydney at (02) 9558 898 or book online to schedule a Teeth Grinding Consultation.