Teeth Grinding

Teeth Grinding Alderley, Newmarket, Brisbane

In this page about teeth grinding, you will learn more about bruxism and teeth grinding causes and consequences and how our team at My Dentist can help. You can also download our price list, as well as learn more about our flexible payment plan options to help you smile faster. If you like what you are reading, then please call us on 07 3356 3636, or complete the enquiry form below for your consultation.
Daniel F.

Absolutely the greatest dental care team I have ever experienced in my life. I highly recommend My Dentist Alderley!

Daniel F.

Are You Grinding Your Teeth?

Teeth Grinding Alderley, Newmarket, Brisbane - My Dentist
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is the clenching and rubbing, or grinding together of the top and bottom teeth, often as a result of stress. It usually takes place while sleeping, so many people who grind their teeth are not aware they do so. Unfortunately, it can have painful consequences that lead to dental problems, facial pain and even TMJ, or temporomandibular joint pain (pain where the jaw connects to the skull).

Clenching the jaw is a symptom of teeth grinding, but there are other symptoms as well. If you experience the following, you may be grinding your teeth in your sleep or at other times, while you are unaware:

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Jaw pain or stiffness
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Unexplained facial pain
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Headaches
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Earaches
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Sensitive teeth
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Worn teeth, especially molars
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Broken teeth
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Loose or damaged fillings

Causes of Teeth Grinding

 
Stress is the most common cause behind teeth grinding, but even when the stress subsides, bruxism can become a habit. Stress and anxiety affect almost everyone at some time, and each person’s reaction to it is different. But there are more causes of teeth grinding than stress and habit, such as the following:

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Medications, especially antidepressants
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Sleep disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea
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Sleep paralysis
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Acid reflux
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Alcohol
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Smoking
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Recreational drugs like cocaine or ecstasy
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Too much caffeine
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Abnormal bite or crooked teeth
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A crown or filling that is too high that can result in muscle spasms in the jaw
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Parasitic infection, especially among children
Children often grind their teeth as baby teeth are coming in or when the adult teeth first come in; luckily, this problem usually stops on its own. But some children may grind their teeth in response to a parasitic infection such as pinworms, as pointed out above, while some children may experience bruxism due to misaligned teeth or allergies. A visit to My Dentist can help, as we can check their teeth as well as oral health issues that may be the cause.

Sleep Apnoea and Bruxism

Teeth Grinding Alderley, Newmarket, Brisbane - My Dentist
Sleep apnoea is a breathing problem that results in diminished oxygen intake due to an obstructed airway. This results in gasping, snorting, choking or loud snoring as the person is left gasping for air. And it is closely related to bruxism, but how?

Sleep apnoea takes place as breathing becomes obstructed, often due to the soft tissue of the mouth relaxing to the point that airways are blocked. The soft tissue of the throat and sinuses partially blocks oxygen flow, resulting in the loud snores that one might hear as the air is being forced through the tissue. The lack of oxygen creates stress and may cause the body to send signals that cause jaw muscles to clench and tighten, resulting in teeth grinding.

Sleep apnoea can lead to health issues such as fatigue, high blood pressure and heart problems. And when left unchecked, excessive bruxism can lead to a series of jaw and dental issues. Addressing both are important for overall health and wellbeing, and our team at My Dentist can guide you through the process.

Effects of Excessive Bruxism

 
Bruxism can lead to oral health problems that may seem to appear without cause, especially if the teeth grinding takes place in your sleep. Without addressing the problem, one may suffer from tooth pain and fractures, prematurely worn teeth, and TMJ. Some people may experience migraines and chronic earaches, leaving the doctor at a loss for the true cause.

But when the cause is not addressed, the problems will continue. If you suspect you might be grinding your teeth in your sleep, or even during the day, our team of dental professionals can help.

If you are experiencing any of the following, schedule a visit with your dentist to prevent potentially expensive oral health problems:

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Unknown jaw, face or ear pain
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Sensitive or worn teeth
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Partner informs you that you are grinding your teeth in your sleep

How We Can Help – My Dentist in Alderley

 
Our experienced team of professionals here at My Dentist in Alderley can help with a number of options. We have dental solutions to help repair teeth that are worn or damaged and we can offer help to prevent future problems. Since teeth grinding can lead to problems with your teeth. The following treatments may help:

Dental implants can be used to permanently replace a missing tooth, and is a good option for those who grind their teeth due to gaps and misplacement of the surrounding teeth. Click here to learn more.

Dental veneers can quickly repair misshapen or teeth that are worn down due to grinding. Click here to learn more.

Dental crowns and bridges can help replace teeth that are damaged, cracked or missing. Click here to learn more.

Invisalign can help align teeth and is an option for those who grind their teeth due to misalignment. Click here to learn more.

When you want to prevent future dental problems caused by bruxism, we can help with the following solutions:
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We can custom create an oral splint, which is a dental appliance that is worn at night to help prevent overnight teeth grinding

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In some cases, we may prescribe medications that can help your muscles relax, until you can gain control over your bruxism

Download Our Free Pricing Guide

Price List - My Dentist

Download Our Free Pricing Guide

Our free pricing guide lists our full range of services, from general dentistry check-ups and maintenance to surgery, cosmetic treatments and restorative services.

Payment Plan Options - Alderley, Newmarket, Brisbane - My Dentist

Payment Plan Options

 
Optimum oral health with the right dental solutions should be available to everyone. If you need help with bruxism or want to take charge of your oral health, we believe money should not be part of your worries. That’s why we offer our patients zero-deposit, zero-interest payment plans to fit your budget. To learn more about our payment options, click here.

Payment Plan Options

Payment Plan Options - Alderley, Newmarket, Brisbane - My Dentist

Optimum oral health with the right dental solutions should be available to everyone. If you need help with bruxism or want to take charge of your oral health, we believe money should not be part of your worries. That’s why we offer our patients zero-deposit, zero-interest payment plans to fit your budget. To learn more about our payment options, click here.

Leah M

Wonderful people! Always caring and a great team to have a chat with. They go above and beyond in what they do.

Leah M
Relax and Heal Today - Alderley, Newmarket, Brisbane - My Dentist

Relax and Heal Today

 
If you clench your jaw, grind your teeth or believe you grind your teeth at night, schedule a visit today. A comprehensive dental exam can help us determine the right customised treatment plan for your oral health, so you can stop the pain and prevent future damage.

Relax and Heal Today

Relax and Heal Today - Alderley, Newmarket, Brisbane - My Dentist
If you clench your jaw, grind your teeth or believe you grind your teeth at night, schedule a visit today. A comprehensive dental exam can help us determine the right customised treatment plan for your oral health, so you can stop the pain and prevent future damage.

Disclaimer: The material posted is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary with each patient. Any dental procedure carries risks and benefits. If you have any specific questions about any dental and/or medical matter, you should consult your dentist, physician or other professional healthcare providers.