Everything you need to know about teeth grinding

Teeth grinding is one of the most common issues we see in patients who need extensive dental work, including fillings, root canal treatment, teeth extraction, and crowns. Teeth grinding treatment is relatively simple. We can make you ultra thin, strong, price-effective mouthguards that are easy to sleep with and will minimise the wear and tear on your teeth.

• Teeth grinding is scientifically known as nocturnal bruxism
• Many people experience bruxism in their sleep
• Common signs of bruxism include worn canine teeth, chipped teeth edges, edge-of-teeth cavities, headaches, jaw ache, stress fractures and even migraines
• Bruxism can also be a sign of stress and often presents as jaw-clenching
• Stimulants (caffeine, drugs, and some prescription medications) can increase bruxism
• Bruxism is one of the leading causes of tooth pain
• Bruxism can be alleviated with a night-time mouthguard (called an occlusal splint) and de-stressing techniques.
• Bruxism can even cause headaches.
• Bruxism, left untreated, can lead to irreparable fractures in the teeth which will need root canal treatment, crowns, or removal.
• Teeth grinding in children can lead to premature teeth wear, cracks, breakages, and even loss of teeth.

If you suspect you might suffer from bruxism, a dentist can have you fitted for a mouthguard and inspect your teeth for premature cracks or wear to prevent infection and possible loss.