Tooth grinding (Bruxism) splint

Bruxism is a multifactorial issue which can be caused by an abnormal bite or crooked teeth, biological factors (e.g. genetics), psychological factors (e.g. stress & anxiety), sleep disorders (e.g. sleep apnea) and/or external factors such as smoking, caffeine, alcohol and some drugs.

When teeth grinding occurs on a regular and forceful basis it can result in wear and tear and cracks in the teeth, broken teeth or broken restorations, and loosening or loss of teeth. Not only can severe grinding damage teeth and result in tooth loss, it can also affect your jaws, cause or worsen jaw and face pain, and even change the appearance of your face.

Teeth grinding is also common in children. However, because their teeth and jaws change and grow so quickly it is not usually a damaging habit that requires treatment, and most outgrow it by their teenage years. However, if your child’s teeth grinding is due to the misaligned teeth, then orthodontics may be the appropriate solution to not only improve their appearance but to protect your child’s teeth over the long term.

Our professional team and dentist consider all the potential causes of your grinding and discuss possible treatment options for you that may include:

• repair of damaged teeth
• making a personalised splint
• stress management techniques
• relaxation techniques
• cognitive behaviour therapy
• Physiotherapy and regular exercise
• Muscle relaxant medications

Dr Kia may prescribe the use of a dental splints. Splints are a special mouthguard to wear at night so that the guard is worn down instead of your teeth. In most cases, a bite splint will only help with the symptoms and will not stop you from grinding altogether.