Teeth Grinding & Clenching: How It Damages Your Smile & What You Can Do

Teeth GrindingBruxism
Written By Tamara Jirjis

Do you wake up with sore jaw muscles, headaches, or tooth sensitivity? You may be grinding or clenching your teeth – also known as bruxism. This common condition can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated. At Fairfield Dental House, we help patients protect their teeth and relieve discomfort with effective solutions.

How Grinding and Clenching Affects Your Teeth

Bruxism puts excessive pressure on your teeth, causing:

  • Cracks and Wear – the constant force can weaken tooth enamel, leading to chips, cracks, and flattening of the teeth. In severe cases, this can lead to pain, and eventual loss of teeth.

  • Loss of Vertical Dimension – over time, grinding can shorten teeth, making your smile look aged and reducing proper bite function.

Symptoms of Grinding and Clenching

Bruxism doesn't just affect your teeth – it can impact your overall well-being. Common symptoms include:

  • Enlarged Masseter Muscles – repetitive clenching strengthens the jaw muscles, making the face appear wider or more square-shaped.

  • Headaches & Neck Pain – the tension from clenching can radiate to your temples, neck, and shoulders.

  • Muscle Pain & Jaw Stiffness – jaw discomfort, clicking sounds, and difficulty opening your mouth fully are common signs.

Treatment Options for Bruxism

If you suspect you're grinding or clenching your teeth, visiting a dentist is essential to prevent long-term damage. Our dental clinic offers a comprehensive review to correctly diagnose your condition and offers effective treatment options such as custom night guards and splints. These devices create a protective barrier between your teeth, reducing wear and relieving jaw strain. We can also explore other options within our professional network, including Botox for the masseter muscle.

Find Relief at Fairfield Dental House

At Fairfield Dental House, we specialize in diagnosing and treating bruxism to protect your smile and improve your quality of life. If you're looking for a dentist near me to help with teeth grinding, contact us today to book an appointment.

Tamara Jirjis

Originally a Sydney local, Dr. Tamara graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery from James Cook University in Queensland. She enjoys providing a gentle and relaxed experience, and loves to help her patients maintain a happy and healthy smile.

Tamara’s desire of helping patients in treating their dental pain, and improving their confidence in their smile, has led to her developing an interest in preventative, endodontic and cosmetic dentistry. Her gentle and compassionate approach extends to her youngest patients as well – she has a special interest in treating children and creating a positive and enjoyable dental experience for them. Her patience and ability to communicate with children on their level make her a favourite among young patients and their parents alike.

As a lifelong learner, Tamara actively participates in continuing education programs and stays up-to-date with the latest advancements in dental technology and techniques. Her dedication to staying current in the field allows her to provide the highest standard of care to her patients. She will take the time to explain all your treatment options, listen to your concerns and make you feel at ease throughout your appointment.

With her unwavering commitment to patient care, continuous professional development, and compassionate approach, Dr. Tamara is a trusted dental professional who strives to make a positive impact on her patients’ oral health and overall well-being.

In her free time, Tamara enjoys spending time with her family, travelling, and trying new recipes.

Previous

Dental Crowns: A Complete Guide by Your Trusted Fairfield Dentist
Next

The Importance of Children’s Dentistry: When to Start and What to Look For