Bruxism Treatment in Perth

Here are the common signs and symptoms associated with bruxism: 

• Morning Jaw Stiffness: Many individuals with bruxism experience stiffness in their jaw upon waking up, which can gradually ease as the day progresses. 
• Jaw Muscle or Joint Pain: Persistent discomfort or soreness in the jaw muscles or jaw joints is a common indicator of bruxism, often intensified by clenching or grinding.
• Morning Headaches: Bruxism patients frequently report headaches, particularly around the temples, in the morning due to the strain on facial muscles and joints during sleep. 
• Tooth Wear: Bruxism can lead to noticeable wear and tear on teeth over time, causing them to appear flattened, chipped, or even fractured. 
• Tongue Indentations: Indentations along the sides of the tongue may occur from repeated pressure during clenching, a tell-tale sign of bruxism. 
• Cheek Ridging: Some individuals may develop visible ridges on the inside of their cheeks from the habitual clenching of teeth. 
• Cracked Teeth or Fractures: The intense pressure from bruxism can result in cracked or fractured teeth, which may require dental intervention. 
• Enlarged Masseter Muscles: In some cases, the masseter muscles, which are responsible for chewing, may become enlarged due to constant contraction during bruxism.
• Grinding Noises: Partners or family members may notice grinding noises coming from the person’s mouth during sleep, which indicates sleep bruxism. 

Management of awake bruxism often focuses on habit reversal training and stress reduction to dull the underlying causes. For sleep bruxism, since stopping muscle activity during sleep is challenging, treatment primarily targets managing its consequences. This can involve lifestyle changes such as avoiding stimulants like caffeine and implementing behavioural therapies like relaxation techniques and good sleep hygiene practices. 

In some cases, individuals may benefit from occlusal splints or injectable therapies to reduce grinding sounds and prevent further dental damage. Additionally, medications may be prescribed to alleviate associated jaw pain and discomfort. 

The bruxism treatment strategy we adopt at our clinic in Mindarie focuses on alleviating symptoms such as headaches, jaw pain, and tooth wear to ensure our patients enjoy a comfortable life. 

Our approach begins with a thorough assessment to understand the patient’s symptoms and unique circumstances. We then design treatment plans, including nightguards or splints to protect the teeth and reduce grinding during sleep or awake. These devices are crafted to fit comfortably and effectively alleviate pressure on the jaw joint.