Bruxism Treatment
We have established our name as a trusted dental clinic, offering effective bruxism treatment and other dental services to patients from Brisbane to Perth.
Bruxism involves teeth grinding and clenching, which can occasionally lead to jaw discomfort and dental issues. Persistent bruxism, however, can cause more severe dental damage and other oral complications over time.
Bruxism Treatment in Brisbane
My implant dentist offers effective solutions for treating bruxism in patients living in Brisbane and nearby locations. These include bruxism mouthguards, medications, and other treatments aimed at alleviating symptoms and safeguarding dental health. Each bruxism treatment plan is carefully designed for our patients, considering their individual dental health needs and specific symptoms.
Bruxism Treatment in Perth
Types of Bruxism
Awake Bruxism
This type involves clenching and grinding of teeth while conscious, often triggered by emotional factors such as stress, anxiety, anger, or intense concentration. Awareness of this habit and stress management techniques can help reduce its frequency. Additionally, wearing a bruxism mouthguard during the day can protect teeth from the damaging effects of grinding.
Sleep Bruxism
This occurs during sleep and is typically more difficult to diagnose and treat due to its unconscious nature. Individuals may exert significant force while grinding teeth and clenching the jaw during sleep, leading to jaw pain, dental problems, and headaches. A night guard explicitly designed for teeth grinding can effectively mitigate this issue by providing a protective barrier and alleviating symptoms associated with sleep bruxism.
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Signs and Symptoms of Bruxism
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Loud Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding may be so loud that it wakes the person sleeping next to you. This repetitive grinding noise can be disruptive and indicative of bruxism. -
Harm to Teeth
Bruxism can cause significant damage to teeth, including flattening, chipping, looseness, or even fractures. These dental issues may require intervention to restore tooth structure and prevent further damage. -
Worn Tooth Enamel
Constant grinding can wear down tooth enamel, the protective layer covering teeth. This can expose the deeper layers of the tooth, leading to increased sensitivity and vulnerability to decay. -
Tooth Sensitivity
As tooth enamel wears down, you may experience heightened tooth sensitivity, especially to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages. -
Harm to Jaw Muscles
Bruxism can strain and tighten the jaw muscles, causing discomfort, fatigue, and even leading to a locked jaw that restricts normal movement. A premium mouthguard can help alleviate these symptoms by supporting and reducing muscle tension.
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Soreness in Jaw, Neck, or Face
Persistent clenching and grinding can lead to soreness and pain in these muscles, affecting daily activities and overall comfort. Earache-Like Pain
Bruxism-related jaw muscle tension can cause pain that feels like an earache, though the issue originates from the jaw rather than the ear itself.Headaches
Bruxism may contribute to dull headaches, which typically start at the temples and sometimes progress to more severe discomfort.Cheek Tissue Damage
The inside of the cheek may be accidentally bitten or damaged while chewing due to irregular jaw movements associated with bruxism.Disrupted Sleep
Teeth clenching or grinding can impact the overall sleep quality. Using a bruxism mouthguard to prevent teeth grinding can help mitigate this issue and promote uninterrupted sleep.
Causes of Bruxism
Awake bruxism is often associated with stress and heightened emotions, occurring during situations requiring concentration or in response to daily stressors. It can be a coping mechanism linked to anxiety disorders, where individuals may unconsciously clench or grind their teeth as a response to psychological tension. Additionally, awake bruxism has been observed in individuals with certain neurological conditions or addiction to smoking, drinking or caffeine.Â
Sleep bruxism is commonly associated with underlying sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnoea, where pauses in breathing during sleep can trigger teeth grinding as the body responds to airway obstruction. Restless leg syndrome and other sleep-related movement disorders have also been linked to sleep bruxism, highlighting a potential connection between abnormal sleep patterns and jaw muscle activity during sleep. Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease may exacerbate bruxism symptoms during sleep, as can psychological conditions, including anxiety and depression.
Diagnosis of Bruxism
Bruxism Treatment Options
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Mouthguard or Splin
Our premium bruxism mouthguard or splint is a primary approach to protecting your teeth from damage caused by clenching or grinding. Unlike over-the-counter options, our appliances are designed specifically for your mouth, providing optimal fit and protection against grinding and clenching forces. These devices help cushion the teeth and prevent wear and tear on dental surfaces. -
Medications
In some cases, medications may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms associated with bruxism. Pain relievers can help manage jaw discomfort and headaches from prolonged clenching or grinding. Muscle relaxants may also be suggested to reduce the intensity of jaw muscle contractions during bruxism episodes.
Treatment of Underlying Conditions
Long-Term Effects and Complications
Gum Bleeding
Chronic bruxism may cause inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis. This inflammation may lead to redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing or flossing. Left untreated, it compromises gum health and may contribute to periodontal disease.
Tooth Loss
Intense and prolonged clenching or grinding forces can loosen teeth over time, potentially leading to tooth mobility and eventual loss. This outcome underscores the importance of timely intervention and protective measures, such as wearing a bruxism mouthguard to mitigate excessive pressure on teeth.
Teeth Flattening
The repetitive clenching motion can wear down tooth surfaces, resulting in flattened or shortened teeth. This aesthetic change may also affect chewing efficiency and overall oral function.
Damage to Dental Work
Patients who have undergone dental procedures like crowns and fillings may experience damage to these restorations due to the forces exerted during bruxism episodes. This can compromise the longevity and effectiveness of dental work, necessitating repairs or replacements and impacting overall oral hygiene.
Cost of Bruxism
The cost of bruxism treatment can vary based on several factors, including the specific approach recommended for your individual needs. Typically, the cost may include:
- Bruxism Mouthguard or Splint
- Medications
- Consultations and Follow-Up Visits
- Treatment of Underlying Conditions
Consult our Team of Experienced Dentist
Talk to us if you want an experienced dentist to offer you bruxism treatment in a modern clinic in cities like Brisbane and Perth. We’re here to help you achieve relief from bruxism symptoms and maintain a healthy smile. Also, we offer other dental services like dental implants, Invisalign, Wisdom Teeth Removal, and more.
Contact us today to book a consultation and discuss your bruxism treatment options.
