Bruxism Explained: Teeth Grinding, Jaw Clenching, and Their Impact on Oral Health

Bruxism is a common condition involving involuntary teeth grinding or jaw clenching, often occurring during sleep but sometimes during waking hours. Many people are unaware they grind or clench their teeth until symptoms develop or signs are identified during a dental examination.

At Brisbane Smile Boutique, bruxism is assessed as part of a broader evaluation of bite function, jaw health, and long-term dental stability.

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism refers to repetitive jaw muscle activity characterised by clenching, grinding, or bracing of the teeth. It can place excessive forces on the teeth, jaw joints, and supporting muscles, potentially contributing to discomfort and dental wear over time.

Bruxism is commonly categorised as:

• Sleep bruxism, which occurs during sleep

• Awake bruxism, which involves daytime clenching or jaw tension

Both forms may occur together and can vary in severity.

Why Does Bruxism Happen?

Bruxism is often multifactorial, meaning several contributing factors may be involved. These can include:

• Stress or anxiety

• Bite imbalance or malocclusion

• Jaw joint or muscle dysfunction

• Sleep disturbances

• Postural influences involving the head and neck

• Changes following dental or orthodontic treatment

Because of this complexity, bruxism should be evaluated in the context of overall oral and jaw function rather than in isolation.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Bruxism

Symptoms of bruxism may differ between individuals and may fluctuate over time. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Jaw soreness or fatigue

• Headaches, particularly in the temples

• Facial muscle tension

• Tooth sensitivity

• Flattened, chipped, or worn teeth

• Cracks or fractures in restorations

• Clicking or discomfort in the jaw joint

Some people experience few symptoms despite significant tooth wear, highlighting the importance of regular dental assessment.

How Bruxism Is Assessed

Assessment of bruxism involves more than identifying tooth wear. At Brisbane Smile Boutique, evaluation may include:

• A detailed dental and medical history

• Examination of tooth wear patterns

• Bite and occlusion assessment

• Jaw movement and muscle evaluation

• Advanced digital scanning to assess alignment and wear

• Professional photography to record bite relationships and facial balance

This comprehensive approach helps identify contributing factors and guides appropriate management options.

Potential Effects of Untreated Bruxism

If left unmanaged, bruxism may contribute to:

• Progressive tooth wear and shortening

• Cracked or fractured teeth

• Damage to crowns, veneers, or restorations

• Jaw joint strain or dysfunction

• Ongoing muscle discomfort or headaches

Early assessment can help reduce the risk of long-term dental and functional complications.

Management Options for Bruxism

Management of bruxism depends on individual findings and contributing factors. Options may include:

• Custom oral appliances designed to reduce tooth contact

• Bite assessment and monitoring

• Orthodontic evaluation where alignment is a contributing factor

• Staged restorative planning if tooth wear is advanced

• Collaboration with other healthcare professionals when appropriate

Treatment is typically conservative and tailored to the patient’s needs.

The Role of Bite, Alignment, and Smile Planning

Bite alignment influences how forces are distributed during clenching and grinding. In some cases, orthodontic planning or restorative strategies may form part of a broader approach to improving long-term function and stability.

Using advanced digital scanning and professional photographic equipment, we are able to assess these relationships precisely and plan care thoughtfully.

When to Seek Professional Advice

Persistent jaw discomfort, headaches, tooth wear, or damage to dental restorations should be professionally assessed. Bruxism is manageable, particularly when identified early and addressed with a personalised approach.

A Comprehensive, Technology-Driven Approach

At Brisbane Smile Boutique, we focus on:

• Thorough assessment of bite and jaw function

• Advanced diagnostic technology

• Individualised care planning

• Clear communication and education

If you are concerned about teeth grinding, jaw clenching, or related symptoms, book a consultation at Brisbane Smile Boutique to discuss your concerns and explore appropriate assessment options.