Teeth Grinding Treatment in London

Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is a condition where you unconsciously clench or grind your teeth, often while asleep. Many people are unaware they grind their teeth until they experience symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth. Left untreated, bruxism can cause long-term dental damage, but the good news is that it can be managed effectively with professional care at Thousand Smile.

What Causes Teeth Grinding?

Bruxism does not have a single cause—it often develops from a combination of factors, including:

Stress and anxiety – one of the most common triggers, especially for night-time grinding.
Sleep disorders – such as sleep apnoea, which may increase clenching during sleep.
Bite or alignment problems – when the teeth don’t sit together correctly.
Lifestyle habits – smoking, caffeine, and alcohol can make grinding more likely.
Medications – certain prescriptions, such as antidepressants, may contribute.
Other health conditions – such as Parkinson’s disease or ADHD.

Children can also grind their teeth, usually as part of normal development. In many cases, they outgrow it, but adults may require treatment to avoid complications.

Signs and Symptoms of Bruxism

Because most teeth grinding occurs during sleep, many patients only realise they have the condition when they develop symptoms such as:

Worn, chipped, or flattened teeth
Increased tooth sensitivity
Tightness or soreness in the jaw muscles
Headaches, especially in the morning
Earache without ear infection
Sleep disruption (for you or your partner)
Clicking or popping in the jaw (TMJ symptoms)

If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to book an appointment with our dentist for an evaluation.

How We Diagnose Bruxism

At Thousand Smile, our dentists perform a detailed examination to confirm bruxism and check the level of damage. This may involve:

Assessing your teeth for wear, chips, or cracks
Checking for jaw tenderness and muscle strain
Taking dental x-rays to examine underlying bone and teeth condition
Discussing your lifestyle, sleep habits, and medical history

The aim is to identify not just the presence of bruxism, but also its severity and potential triggers.

Treatment Options for Teeth Grinding

Not everyone who grinds their teeth needs treatment. Some mild cases cause no lasting damage. However, if bruxism is severe, frequent, or painful, our dentists can recommend tailored solutions to protect your teeth and relieve discomfort.

1. Splints and Mouthguards

Custom-made night guards are the most common and effective treatment. These devices fit over your upper or lower teeth to:

Prevent tooth-to-tooth contact
Reduce wear and tear on the enamel
Relieve pressure on the jaw joints

Unlike over-the-counter options, our bespoke guards are made from high-quality materials for a comfortable and secure fit.

2. Dental Corrections

If bruxism has already caused damage, restorative treatments may be needed:

Dental crowns – to rebuild worn or fractured teeth.
Reshaping – adjusting uneven biting surfaces to reduce stress on certain teeth.

3. Stress and Lifestyle Management

Since stress and anxiety are major contributors, your dentist may recommend:

Relaxation techniques, meditation, or exercise
Stress management therapy
Limiting caffeine, alcohol, and smoking

4. Behavioural and Biofeedback Therapy

Biofeedback devices help patients become aware of their clenching habits during the day, retraining muscles to relax.

5. Medication (in rare cases)

In severe cases, short-term muscle relaxants or other medication may be prescribed to reduce jaw tension at night.

Complications of Untreated Bruxism

Without treatment, chronic teeth grinding can lead to:

Enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity
Fractured or loosened teeth
Gum problems from excessive pressure
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD/TMJ)
Chronic headaches and jaw pain
Long-term facial muscle fatigue

Preventing Teeth Grinding

While not all cases can be prevented, these steps can help reduce risk:

Avoid chewing on pens, ice, or hard foods
Cut back on caffeine and alcohol
Create a relaxing bedtime routine
Practise jaw exercises or stretches recommended by your dentist
Attend regular dental check-ups to catch early signs

Why Choose Thousand Smile for Bruxism Treatment?

Experienced dentists with expertise in diagnosing and treating teeth grinding
Custom-made night guards for maximum comfort and effectiveness
Holistic care that addresses both the dental damage and underlying causes
Convenient appointments and emergency support for severe pain or tooth damage