Teeth Grinding and Clenching – How a Dentist Can Help You Sleep Better
Do you wake up with headaches, jaw pain, or sensitive teeth? You might be one of the many people who grind their teeth during sleep. A condition known as bruxism. At Islington Smiles, we’re seeing more patients dealing with the effects of grinding and clenching, especially during times of stress.
Fortunately, our experienced team offers targeted treatments that not only relieve symptoms but also protect your teeth long term.
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism refers to the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth. While it can occur during the day, most people are unaware that they’re doing it while asleep. Night time grinding is often more harmful because it’s more intense and goes on for longer periods.
Common symptoms include:
- Jaw stiffness or soreness
- Headaches, especially in the morning
- Tooth sensitivity
- Worn-down, chipped, or flattened teeth
- Disrupted sleep for you (and sometimes your partner)
Left untreated, bruxism can lead to serious issues like cracked teeth, gum recession, and even jaw joint disorders such as TMD (temporomandibular disorder).
What Causes Teeth Grinding?
Teeth grinding is often triggered by:
- Stress or anxiety
- Sleep disorders, like sleep apnoea
- Misaligned teeth or bite issues
- Lifestyle factors, such as excessive caffeine or alcohol
- Medications like SSRIs or ADHD treatments
Because the causes are varied, treatment should be personalised, which is exactly what we provide at Islington Smiles.
How a Dentist Can Help
Your dentist is often the first person to detect bruxism during a routine exam. At Islington Smiles, we take a thorough approach, starting with an oral health assessment to look for signs of wear and tear, jaw movement restrictions, and bite imbalances.
Custom Night Guards for Grinding
A common and highly effective treatment for bruxism is a custom-fitted night guard. These are clear, slim devices worn over your teeth while you sleep. They act as a cushion between your upper and lower jaws, reducing strain on the muscles and joints.
Benefits include:
- Protecting enamel from grinding damage
- Easing pressure on the TMJ
- Improving quality of sleep
- Reducing tension headaches and jaw pain
Unlike over-the-counter guards, our bespoke night guards are moulded precisely to your mouth, ensuring maximum comfort and protection.
Managing the Root Cause
We don’t just offer night guards…we look deeper. If your grinding stems from stress, we may refer you to your GP or a therapist. If your bite is the culprit, orthodontic options such as Invisalign can help align your teeth and relieve pressure.
We may also suggest:
- Reducing stimulants (caffeine, nicotine)
- Improving sleep hygiene
- Gentle facial massages or jaw exercises
- Botox treatment (in severe cases) to relax overactive jaw muscles
How Invisalign May Help
Many people are surprised to learn that misaligned teeth are a hidden cause of grinding. When your bite doesn’t sit comfortably, your jaw muscles compensate by clenching, especially at night.
Invisalign, offered at Islington Smiles by our Diamond-level providers, can gradually correct alignment issues. This not only improves aesthetics but also relieves pressure from your jaw joints and muscles, often reducing grinding in the process.
A Preventative, Long-Term Mindset
We believe in prevention over correction. Identifying and treating bruxism early can save you the cost and discomfort of future repairs. Regular dental check-ups play a crucial role in monitoring the condition and adapting your treatment as needed.
At Islington Smiles, we’ll keep an eye on your teeth and any signs of wear over time, adjusting your plan if your bite changes or if your night guard needs replacement.
Patient Focused Care from Start to Finish
At Islington Smiles, we combine cutting edge dental knowledge with a calming, patient first approach. Whether you’ve just started noticing symptoms or you’ve been grinding for years, we can help protect your smile and improve your sleep.
It’s easy to see why so many people trust Islington Smiles when it comes to managing teeth grinding, especially with experienced hands guiding the process.
Our care is led by Dr Marisa Monteiro, an award winning dentist with a calm, tailored approach to every treatment. She and the wider team of dental hygienists, cosmetic dentists and support staff ensure that each patient receives individual attention, from initial consultation to final results.
Whether you’re looking for relief from jaw pain or simply want to preserve your smile, contact us today to book a consultation. We’re here to help because your smile (and your sleep) deserves expert care.
Back to Blog
