--- title: Grinding Teeth and Bruxism description: Grinding teeth or bruxism is a common problem, but there are ways we can help you treat it at Inner West Orthodontics. Come see Tony and the team today. --- [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/pages/Inner-West-Orthodontics/450571491761032?ref=hl) [1800 13 10 13](tel:+1800131013) [![inner west orthodontics](https://www.innerwestorthodontics.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/Pages/IWO-logo.png?width=172&height=61&name=IWO-logo.png "inner west orthodontics")](https://www.innerwestorthodontics.com.au) Menu # Grinding Teeth and Bruxism # What is Bruxism? Do you have a habit of grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw more than you think is normal? Teethrinding or **bruxism** is a common problem that can affect anyone of any age.   In fact, you might even be teeth grinding without knowing you’re doing it ― that is, until you begin to notice pain or damage to your teeth. Fortunately, at Inner West Orthodontics we can help minimise any long term problems your teeth grinding habit is causing. ![services-circle-img.png](https://www.innerwestorthodontics.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/Pages/services-circle-img.png?width=373&name=services-circle-img.png "services-circle-img.png") # What causes teeth grinding? There are many reasons why tooth grinding/bruxism occurs, so the first step to resolving the issue is getting to the initial cause of the problem. Some of the reasons people grind or clench their teeth include: - *Stress* — *stress-related tension can cause excess pressure in the jaw and subconscious tooth-grinding behaviour, particularly as a response to strong emotions such as anger or anxiety.* - Medical conditions *—* tooth grinding is commonly associated with health conditions such as ear infection or temporomandibular disorders (TMJ/TMD), or as a side effect of prescription medications used to treat unrelated conditions. - Sleep disorders *—* when teeth grinding in sleep occurs, patients are usually unaware that it’s happening. Teeth grinding and sleep disorders are closely connected; for instance, teeth grinding is linked to sleep apnea (a condition in which the airways close off during sleep, momentarily cutting off oxygen) have an increased incidence of developing bruxism. - Mechanical problems *—* misalignment of the upper and lower jaw, crooked teeth (malocclusion) or broken teeth can also encourage tooth grinding. # Long-term effects of teeth grinding Tooth grinding/bruxism is extremely common, and may come and go due to various factors throughout your life.  Fortunately, most people who grind their teeth do not experience significant impacts as a result.  If you find that it's becoming moore serious or you are suffering from any of the side effects listed above, your Orthodontist may decide to fit you with a special mouthguard to protect your teeth at night. ![Section background image](https://www.innerwestorthodontics.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/Pages/services-section-bg-img.png?width=1591&name=services-section-bg-img.png "Section background image") # Teeth grinding or bruxism treatment options If your tooth grinding is the result of crooked teeth or a poor bite then braces or [Invisalign ® Aligners](https://www.innerwestorthodontics.com.au/invisalign/) may be the solution.  These appliances realign and straighten the teeth so that they fit together better within your jaw. For many patients, this will discourage or even eliminate the urge to grind teeth. A range of options are available to address this behaviour, so contact your Orthodontist for tooth grinding help before you notice long term damage to your teeth. ![teeth-grinding](https://www.innerwestorthodontics.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/Website_Pages/Services-invisalign/smiling-woman-costs-invisalign.png?width=1000&name=smiling-woman-costs-invisalign.png "teeth-grinding") # We can help Finding the right solution to address your grinding condition can be a tricky task - we've got your back! If you need a helping hand and would like to chat more about your options, then we've got you covered.  We'll help you find the solution that's right for you.  Simply drop us a line and we'll get in touch.  ![transparent logo.png](https://www.innerwestorthodontics.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/transparent%20logo.png?width=165&name=transparent%20logo.png "transparent logo.png") #### Home #### About #### Resources [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/pages/Inner-West-Orthodontics/450571491761032?ref=hl) [1800 13 10 13](tel:+1800131013)   Five Dock 120 First Avenue Five Dock NSW 2046 © Copyright 2023 — Inner West Orthodontics × Inner West Orthodontics is closed from the 21st of December, 2017 until the 30th of January, 2018