Bruxism Dentist Perth
What is Bruxism?
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, often occurring during sleep but sometimes while awake. Common signs include jaw discomfort, headaches, and worn tooth surfaces, which can lead to more serious issues if left unaddressed. Potential causes range from stress and anxiety to misaligned teeth and certain sleep disorders. Early detection and treatment, often involving mouthguards or addressing underlying triggers, can help prevent further damage and maintain overall oral health.
Common Causes of Bruxism
- Stress and Anxiety: Emotional tension can lead to teeth grinding, especially during sleep.
- Sleep Disorders: Conditions like sleep apnoea may contribute to bruxism.
- Bite Misalignment: Teeth that do not fit together properly can cause uneven pressure on the jaw.
- Lifestyle Factors: Heavy caffeine or alcohol use can intensify grinding or clenching episodes.
What Are the Negative Effects of Bruxism?
- Jaw Pain and Headaches: Repetitive grinding can cause muscle tension and discomfort in the jaw and temples.
- Tooth Damage: Excessive pressure may wear down tooth surfaces or cause chips and fractures over time.
- Increased Sensitivity: The erosion of tooth enamel can lead to heightened sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Issues: Ongoing stress on the jaw joint can result in clicking, popping, or reduced range of motion.
- Sleep Disruptions: Noisy grinding can disturb the sleep of both the individual and anyone sharing the same room.
Our Treatments for Bruxism
Genesis Dental in Canning Vale, offers comprehensive solutions to help manage and alleviate the effects of bruxism (teeth grinding). Our services include custom-fitted mouthguards, Mandibular Advancement Splints, teeth aligners for bite correction, and regular checkups to monitor any changes in the teeth or jaw. These treatments aim to reduce grinding, protect against tooth damage, and promote better overall oral health.
Teeth Aligners
Mouthguards
Splints
General Checkups
How to Manage Bruxism at Home
- Reduce Stress and Anxiety: Activities like yoga, gentle exercise, and mindful breathing can help lower tension levels, which in turn may lessen grinding or clenching.
- Establish a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Limiting screen time, enjoying a warm bath, or reading before bed can support a calmer mind and reduce the likelihood of nocturnal bruxism.
- Watch Your Diet and Habits: Cutting down on caffeine and alcohol—especially in the evening—may help diminish teeth grinding.
- Jaw Relaxation Techniques: Practising simple jaw exercises, such as gently massaging the jaw muscles or opening and closing the mouth slowly, can ease muscle tension.
- Avoid Chewing on Non-Food Items: Chewing pens, ice, or fingernails can aggravate jaw strain. Sticking to food items only can help reduce stress on the jaw.
Although home care methods can be beneficial, ongoing symptoms or significant pain should be assessed by a dental professional. Regular checkups will help ensure long-term oral health and effective bruxism management.
How To Prevent Bruxism
Bruxism prevention focuses on reducing stress, improving sleep habits, protecting teeth, and addressing underlying causes such as bite misalignment.
- Manage Stress and Anxiety: Incorporate calming practices—such as meditation, light exercise, or journaling—into a daily routine to lower tension levels that can trigger grinding.
- Maintain Healthy Sleep Habits: Aim for a consistent bedtime, and create a relaxing environment by reducing screen time and avoiding caffeine or alcohol before bed.
- Protect Teeth with a Mouthguard: If signs of clenching or grinding appear, using a custom-fitted mouthguard at night can help shield teeth and jaw muscles.
- Address Bite Issues Early: Seek dental advice if teeth feel misaligned or if there is persistent jaw discomfort; early treatment can prevent bruxism from developing or worsening.
- Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects: Refrain from biting pens, ice, or fingernails, as these habits place added stress on the jaw and may encourage grinding.
When Should I See a Dentist for Bruxism?
It is recommended to see a dentist if you frequently experience jaw pain, headaches, or tooth sensitivity that could indicate teeth grinding. A professional evaluation is especially important if you notice persistent jaw discomfort upon waking or visible wear on your teeth. Early assessment allows a dentist to determine the extent of grinding damage, identify contributing factors, and recommend treatments such as custom mouthguards or bite adjustments. By consulting a dentist promptly, you can help prevent further tooth damage, reduce pain, and maintain a healthy, comfortable smile.
Associations
Our dentists are members of reputable dental associations, including the Australian Dental Association WA (ADAWA) and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). We are also accredited by QIP, meaning our practice adheres to industry guidelines and regulations.
We accept all health funds, claimable on the spot for your convenience. We are preferred providers with HBF, HCF, CBHS and NIB, meaning you can maximise your rebate.
We also provide interest free payment plan options via The Tooth Market’s Fund My Dental. We also participate in government aided programs such as the Child Dental Benefits Scheme and provide top quality treatment for Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) card holders.
Meet Our Team
Dr. Serene Ong
Dentist
Dr. Ben Luu
Dentist
Dr. Ashleigh Furfaro
Dentist
Dr. Amanda Lau
Dentist
Kelly Jones
Dental Assistant
Samantha St Johnston
Dental Assistant
Bruxism FAQ's
Can bruxism cause serious dental problems?
Yes, untreated bruxism can lead to tooth fractures, enamel wear, increased sensitivity, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and long-term jaw pain.
How is bruxism diagnosed?
A dentist can diagnose bruxism by examining the teeth for signs of wear, assessing jaw function, and discussing symptoms such as jaw pain or headaches. In some cases, a sleep study may be recommended.
Can bruxism be prevented?
While not always preventable, reducing stress, avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol, maintaining good sleep hygiene, and addressing bite issues can help minimise the risk of teeth grinding.
What can I do at home to help with bruxism?
Home care strategies include jaw relaxation exercises, avoiding chewing on non-food objects, practising stress reduction techniques, and maintaining a consistent sleep routine.
Can children have bruxism?
Yes, children can develop bruxism, often due to misaligned teeth, stress, or pain from teething. In many cases, it resolves on its own, but persistent grinding should be assessed by a dentist.
Is a mouthguard necessary for bruxism?
A custom-fitted mouthguard is often recommended to protect teeth from damage and reduce the strain on jaw muscles caused by grinding, especially during sleep.
Contact Us
Contact our caring dentists in Canning Vale today with any questions about dental crowns and bridges or to book your consultation to start your journey to a healthy smile.