What is Bruxism?

Bruxism is involuntary teeth clenching or grinding, usually during sleep. It can also happen during the day, especially in moments of high stress or intense concentration. Many people don’t realise they grind their teeth until a partner hears it at night or a dentist notices the signs during a routine check-up. Occasionally, patients report waking with jaw pain or headaches, which often prompts them to investigate further with us.

What Causes Teeth Grinding?

There are several possible causes of bruxism, and in many cases, it’s the result of a combination of factors. The most common include stress and anxiety, which can lead to unconscious teeth grinding at night. Work pressures, family responsibilities, or life changes like moving home can all heighten tension and increase the likelihood of grinding.

Some people grind their teeth because of an abnormal bite or misaligned teeth. When the upper and lower teeth don’t line up properly, the jaw may shift to compensate, resulting in teeth grinding. Others may be affected by lifestyle habits like smoking, high caffeine consumption, alcohol use, or recreational drug use, which can increase muscle activity in the jaw.

In some instances, certain medications—especially antidepressants—can contribute to the condition by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain. Sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnoea, are also strongly linked to bruxism. If you snore, wake up feeling tired, or have been told you stop breathing during sleep, you may want to investigate whether a sleep condition is playing a role in your teeth grinding.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For

Bruxism isn’t always easy to detect on your own, but there are some tell-tale signs that may suggest it’s time to see your dentist. People with bruxism often experience:

• Jaw pain
• Tension headaches (especially in the morning)
• Earaches (without signs of infection)
• Teeth wear and enamel loss
• Flattened or chipped teeth
• Increased tooth sensitivity

Over time, the constant pressure can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder which can causing clicking or popping sounds when you open your mouth, or even difficulty chewing. Persistent muscle soreness around the jaw, neck, or shoulders is another potential sign of bruxism.

Why It’s Important to Seek Treatment

Left untreated, bruxism can do serious dental damage. Chronic teeth grinding can lead to teeth wear and enamel loss, leaving your teeth vulnerable to cavities and fractures. It can also lead to gum recession, loose teeth, and in severe cases, tooth loss. The added strain on your jaw can trigger TMJ disorders and chronic facial pain, affecting your quality of life and even your sleep.

Chronic pain and sleep disruptions from bruxism can also contribute to fatigue, irritability, and reduced productivity. Some patients develop headaches so severe they interfere with daily activities. In children, long-term grinding can affect tooth development and jaw growth, making early detection and intervention especially crucial.

How We Can Help at Advanced Health Dental

Our approach to managing bruxism starts with a thorough evaluation. If we detect signs of teeth grinding or clenching, we’ll work with you to determine the likely cause and the best bruxism treatment option. One of the most effective bruxism treatment options is a custom-made night guard, designed to fit comfortably and protect your teeth while you sleep.

We also provide guidance on lifestyle modifications that may help, such as reducing stress, avoiding stimulants like caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and addressing sleep-related issues. For patients with sleep-disordered breathing, we can collaborate with sleep specialists to address conditions like sleep apnoea. If your bruxism is linked to a bite issue or tooth misalignment, we may suggest orthodontic or restorative treatment, such as braces, aligners, or reshaping certain teeth for a better fit.

Teeth grinding is a common condition that can lead to serious dental damage from bruxism if ignored, but the good news is that it can be effectively managed with bruxism treatment options. Early intervention not only protects your teeth but also improves your sleep quality and overall comfort.

If you think you might be experiencing teeth grinding at night, book a consultation with Advanced Health Dental Centre in Bankstown today. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalised care and helping you maintain a healthy, radiant smile for years to come.