TMD & Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
About
TMD & Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) at Mickleham Dental
Concerned about teeth grinding, jaw pain or sleep issues? Mickleham Dental Clinic offers assessment and treatment for TMD, bruxism and related problems, including custom night guards, bite correction, muscle relaxant therapy and referrals for possible sleep apnoea.
Bruxism: Teeth Grinding and Clenching
Bruxism refers to involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth, either during sleep or while awake. For some people, this is associated with stress, anxiety or periods of high concentration. In others, it may be related to physical factors like an uneven bite, crooked teeth or changes in jaw position. Because grinding frequently happens during sleep, many patients are unaware until a partner hears the noise or a dentist notices unusual wear on the teeth. If left untreated, bruxism can gradually wear down the enamel, chip or crack teeth, damage existing fillings and crowns, and place excessive load on the jaw joints.
You might suspect that you grind your teeth if you wake with sore jaw muscles, headaches around the temples, facial tightness or teeth that feel sensitive or tender. Sometimes the front teeth appear shorter or flatter, or you may notice edges that look chipped or rough. If these signs sound familiar, a dental assessment can help confirm whether bruxism is present and what impact it is having on your teeth and TMJ.
TMD and the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are located just in front of each ear and allow your jaw to move when talking, chewing and yawning. When these joints or the surrounding muscles are not functioning properly, it is known as temporomandibular disorder (TMD). TMD can develop when grinding or clenching places persistent pressure on the joint, when the bite is misaligned, after injuries to the jaw or head, or as part of other joint conditions.
People with TMD often describe clicking or popping noises when they open their mouth, difficulty opening wide, or a feeling that the jaw can “lock” in position. Pain may be felt around the jaw, in front of the ears, in the temples or even across the face and neck. Some patients also notice shoulder tension, a sense of fullness or aching around the ears and, in more complex cases, intermittent dizziness or changes in hearing. Because these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, a careful examination is important to identify the role of the TMJ and muscles.
Concerned About Teeth Grinding or Jaw Pain?
If you’ve noticed signs of grinding, jaw discomfort, frequent headaches or concerns about your sleep, we encourage you to book an assessment with our team. Early intervention can prevent more serious wear and help protect your smile, your joints and your overall wellbeing.
Signs You May Need TMD or Bruxism Treatment
You may benefit from a TMD or bruxism assessment if you have a combination of symptoms such as worn or flattened teeth, unexplained tooth sensitivity, jaw pain or tightness, frequent morning headaches, discomfort while chewing, clicking or popping in the jaw, or a feeling that your bite no longer fits comfortably. Poor sleep quality, grinding noises reported by a partner, or a history of jaw or head trauma may also point towards an underlying jaw or grinding issue. Early diagnosis allows for more conservative and effective treatment, helping to prevent further damage and protect your teeth and joints.
Custom Night Guards and Mouthguards
One of the most common and effective ways we manage grinding and TMD-related wear is through custom-made night guards, sometimes called occlusal splints. These are clear appliances made from durable acrylic or nylon materials and are precisely fitted to your teeth. They are generally worn while you sleep and are designed to prevent direct tooth-on-tooth contact, reduce muscle load and protect your dental work from further damage.
Wearing a professionally made night guard over time can help reduce morning jaw fatigue, lessen headaches and provide a more stable, comfortable position for the jaw. Because every mouth and bite pattern is different, your splint will be carefully adjusted to suit your individual needs, rather than relying on generic over-the-counter devices.
Experiencing Jaw Clicking, Tightness or Morning Headaches?
These symptoms may point to TMD or night-time grinding. Our dentists can assess your jaw and create a personalised plan for relief.
Other Treatment Options for TMD and Teeth Grinding
In addition to night guards, treatment may include strategies to reduce clenching, such as jaw relaxation exercises, posture correction and stress management techniques. Where jaw muscles are particularly overactive or painful, muscle relaxant therapy may be considered as part of a broader plan to relieve tension and protect the joint. If your bite is significantly misaligned or your teeth are heavily worn, restorative work such as crowns or orthodontic treatment may be recommended to restore a more balanced and functional bite.
Physiotherapy can also play a valuable role, particularly when muscle tightness or neck and shoulder posture are contributing to TMD. In more complex or severe cases, we may work together with oral medicine specialists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons or other health professionals to ensure you receive the most appropriate care.
Long-Term Care and Follow-Up
TMD and bruxism are often ongoing conditions that benefit from monitoring over time. At Mickleham Dental Clinic, we review your symptoms, adjust your night guard if needed and keep track of any changes in your teeth, jaw joints and bite. Our goal is not only to relieve your current discomfort but also to reduce the risk of future damage and help you maintain a comfortable, functional bite and a healthier night’s sleep
Worried About Teeth Grinding or Ongoing Jaw Pain?
If you’re experiencing jaw tension, morning headaches, worn teeth or disrupted sleep, it may be time to have your symptoms assessed.
Identifying and treating bruxism or TMD early can help prevent long-term damage and restore comfort to your jaw, teeth and everyday life.