Bruxism - the habit of grinding or clenching teeth, most commonly during sleep - affects an estimated 10 - 15% of UK adults. Many are completely unaware they do it. If left untreated, bruxism can cause significant damage to teeth, restorations, and the jaw joint.
Signs You May Be Grinding Your Teeth
- Waking with jaw ache, facial muscle tension, or headaches at the temples
- A partner telling you they can hear grinding during sleep
- Teeth that appear flatter, shorter, or more worn than they used to be
- Cracked or chipped teeth without a clear cause
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Pain or clicking in the jaw joint (TMJ)
🦷 Dr. Gadde can identify signs of bruxism during your routine examination - worn tooth surfaces, chipped edges, and muscle tenderness are all clinical indicators examined at each check-up.
What Damage Can Bruxism Cause?
Untreated bruxism gradually wears away tooth enamel - particularly from the biting surfaces of back teeth and the edges of front teeth. This enamel cannot regenerate. Over years, significant tooth structure can be lost, requiring extensive restorative treatment (composite build-ups, veneers, or crowns) to restore. Existing restorations - fillings, crowns, and veneers - are also vulnerable to fracture under grinding forces.
How a Custom Night Guard Helps
A custom occlusal splint (night guard) made from impressions of your teeth provides a precision-fit appliance that absorbs grinding forces. The splint is made from hard acrylic - it takes the wear instead of your teeth. A well-fitting, consistently worn night guard effectively prevents further tooth wear and reduces the muscle loading that causes morning jaw ache and headaches.
Why Custom Guards Are Better Than Pharmacy Alternatives
Boil-and-bite guards from pharmacies are bulky, imprecise, and uncomfortable - most patients stop wearing them within days. A custom-made guard from dental impressions fits precisely, is slim enough to be comfortable during sleep, and is far more durable. Compliance - actually wearing the guard - is the most important factor in its effectiveness.
Michigan / Tanner Splints for TMJ Problems
For patients with significant jaw joint (TMJ) dysfunction as well as bruxism, a Michigan or Tanner splint may be recommended. These are more comprehensive full-arch appliances that help reposition the jaw joint as well as protecting teeth. They are prescribed for more complex cases involving facial pain, limited mouth opening, or clicking/locking of the jaw.
If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth, book an appointment at Accord Dental Practice in Camberley. Learn more about custom mouth guards and night guards.