Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) Treatment Brisbane and Gold Coast

At MGA Dental Brisbane and Gold Coast, we are committed to providing effective solutions for teeth grinding (bruxism) to protect your smile and improve your overall well-being.

Teeth grinding, often caused by stress, sleep disorders, or dental misalignment, can lead to severe dental issues if left untreated. Our comprehensive range of treatments, including occlusal splints, ensures that every patient receives a personalized plan to manage and prevent bruxism effectively.

What is Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)?

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is the involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth, most commonly occurring during sleep. While occasional grinding may not cause serious harm, persistent or chronic bruxism can lead to tooth wear, jaw discomfort, and other oral health issues.

Symptoms of Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Recognising the signs of teeth grinding early can help prevent long-term damage and discomfort. Here are some common symptoms of teeth grinding:

Flattened, chipped, or fractured teeth
Tooth sensitivity or persistent pain
Soreness or stiffness in the jaw, or difficulty opening and closing the mouth
Frequent headaches, particularly around the temples
Earaches or a sensation of ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Interrupted or poor-quality sleep

What Causes Bruxism?

Dental snoring appliances, such as Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) and the Mandibular Dental Sleep Appliance (MDSA), are custom-made oral devices designed to reduce snoring and help manage mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). These appliances work by gently repositioning the lower jaw (mandible) and tongue forward, helping to keep the airway open and prevent blockages during sleep.

Understanding what causes bruxism can help you and your dentist find the most effective way to manage it. Here are some of the most common causes of teeth grinding:

Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress is one of the most common triggers for bruxism.
Sleep Disorders: Conditions such as sleep apnoea or chronic snoring can contribute to nighttime grinding.
Malocclusion: Misaligned teeth can lead to uneven pressure during biting or chewing, causing grinding.
Lifestyle Factors: High caffeine intake, alcohol consumption, and smoking are all linked to increased grinding.
Medications: Some medications, particularly certain types of antidepressants, may list bruxism as a side effect.

The Role of Occlusal Splints in Treating Teeth Grinding

One of the most effective treatments for bruxism is the use of occlusal splints, also known as night guards or bite guards. These custom-made dental appliances are designed to protect your teeth and alleviate the effects of grinding.

What is an Occlusal Splint?

An occlusal splint is a custom-fitted dental appliance made from high-quality, durable materials. It fits over your upper or lower teeth, creating a protective barrier between the teeth to prevent the damage caused by grinding or clenching.

The Role of Occlusal Splints in Treating Teeth Grinding

Benefits of Occlusal Splints

If you’re experiencing symptoms of bruxism or jaw discomfort, an occlusal splint may be a simple and effective solution. Here’s how they can help:

1.
Protects Teeth:
Prevents enamel wear, chipping, and fractures.

2.
Reduces Jaw Strain:
Alleviates tension in the jaw muscles and joints.

3.
Relieves Pain:
Eases symptoms such as headaches, jaw pain, and earaches.

4.
Improves Sleep Quality:
Minimizes grinding noises and helps you sleep more comfortably.

5.
Prevents TMJ Disorders:
Reduces the risk of developing or worsening temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues.

Custom vs. Over-the-Counter Splints

While over-the-counter mouthguards are available, they do not provide the same level of protection, comfort, or durability as custom-made occlusal splints.

Advantages of custom-made occlusal splints are:

Perfect Fit: Designed to fit your teeth precisely for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
Durable Materials: Made from high-quality materials for long-term use.
Tailored Design: Adjusted to suit your specific bite and grinding patterns.

Enhanced Comfort: Custom splints are less bulky and more comfortable to wear than generic options.

The Occlusal Splint Process

Creating a custom-fit occlusal splint involves a few straightforward steps designed to ensure comfort, accuracy, and long-term protection for your teeth and jaw:

Initial Consultation: During your visit, we assess your teeth, jaw, and overall oral health to determine if an occlusal splint is suitable for you.
Impressions / Digital Scan: Precise molds of your teeth are taken to ensure a perfect fit.
Fabrication: Using advanced technology, your custom occlusal splint is crafted to match your unique dental structure.
Fitting Appointment: Once the splint is ready, we ensure it fits comfortably and provide instructions on how to use and care for it.

Additional Bruxism Treatment Options

Alongside occlusal splints, MGA Dental clinics in Brisbane and the Gold Coast provide a range of effective treatments to help manage teeth grinding and its underlying causes:

Stress Management: Techniques such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises to reduce grinding caused by stress.
Bite Adjustments: Correcting misaligned teeth to eliminate excessive pressure.
TMJ Therapy: Targeted treatments to address jaw pain and dysfunction.
Lifestyle Recommendations: Personalised guidance on limiting triggers like caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco that may contribute to bruxism.

Why Choose MGA Dental for Bruxism Treatment?

Teeth grinding may seem minor, but over time it can lead to serious dental and jaw complications. At MGA Dental in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, we take a proactive approach to bruxism with custom-made occlusal splints and personalised treatment plans tailored to your needs. Our goal is to protect your teeth, relieve discomfort, and improve your overall oral health.

Experienced Team: Our dentists have in-depth expertise in diagnosing and treating bruxism with proven, effective methods.
Comprehensive Care: We create tailored plans that address both the symptoms and root causes of grinding.
Advanced Technology: We use modern diagnostic tools to ensure accurate assessment and treatment.
Convenient Locations: Access expert care from our easily accessible clinics in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
Patient-Focused Approach: Your comfort and long-term wellbeing are always at the centre of our care.

Ready to protect your teeth and sleep more comfortably? Get in touch with MGA Dental to book your consultation and take the first step toward managing bruxism with confidence.

Contact us Today

Why Choose MGA Dental for Bruxism Treatment

Bruxism FAQs

How do I know if I’m grinding my teeth at night?

Common signs include waking up with jaw pain, headaches, or sensitive teeth. You might also notice worn-down tooth surfaces or hear grinding noises during sleep (often reported by a partner).

Is teeth grinding only a problem during sleep?

Not necessarily. While most bruxism happens at night, some people also clench or grind their teeth during the day, especially during stressful situations or intense focus.

Can children suffer from bruxism too?

Yes, children can grind their teeth, often due to stress, misaligned teeth, or as a response to growth and development. If you’re concerned, our team at MGA Dental can assess your child and recommend age-appropriate care.

Will a night guard stop me from grinding altogether?

Occlusal splints (night guards) won’t stop the grinding itself, but they protect your teeth from damage and help reduce jaw tension.

Can untreated bruxism cause long-term damage?

Yes. Without treatment, bruxism can lead to worn or fractured teeth, gum recession, jaw joint disorders (TMJ), and even tooth loss. Early intervention can help avoid more serious dental work later on.

Is an occlusal splint comfortable to wear?

Custom-made splints are designed to fit your mouth precisely, making them far more comfortable and effective than generic alternatives. Most patients adjust to them quickly and find they improve sleep quality.