Teeth grinding (Bruxism) in Perth — diagnose & protect
Grinding wears down enamel, fractures teeth and damages fillings. Most people don't know they grind until a dentist diagnoses it. A custom splint stops the damage. We'll examine your teeth, identify the cause and fit a splint that protects them long-term.
Custom-fitted splint
Quoted after consultation
Custom splints last several years and are made specifically for your bite
Pricing varies with materials and lab work. We assess and quote in writing before booking.
Grinding or clenching that wears down your teeth
Bruxism is a condition where you grind or clench your teeth, wearing down the enamel and causing dental problems. It often happens during sleep but is also an unconscious habit when awake. Many people don't know they grind until their dentist diagnoses significant tooth wear.
Causes of teeth grinding
Stress & anxiety
Built-up tension causes teeth to clench up — often during deep concentration or sleep.
Abnormal bite
Uneven bite, bad tooth alignment, missing or crooked teeth can lead to grinding.
Uneven fillings
An old filling that's slightly too high changes how your teeth come together and can trigger grinding.
Sleep Apnoea
Grinding can be a natural reflex to unblock the airway during sleep — worth investigating if you suspect Sleep Apnoea.
Signs you may be grinding
- A dull headache (especially in the morning)
- Sore jaw muscles and joints
- Ear pain
- Trouble opening the mouth wide
- Facial pain — aching or stiffness
- Aching teeth
Severe damage can result in
- Broken dental fillings
- Cracks or chips in the teeth
- Sensitive teeth (from worn enamel)
- Wobbly teeth (from chronic loosening)
How we treat grinding
Custom-fitted splint
The most effective treatment. Worn at night to create a barrier between upper and lower teeth, protecting them from further damage. Made with harder plastic than off-the-shelf mouthguards — lasts several years.
Sports mouthguard
For grinding during daytime activities, a custom mouthguard is more comfortable and protective than off-the-shelf versions.
Treat the cause
If existing dental problems (uneven fillings, misalignment) cause the grinding, addressing those usually reduces it.
Prevention tips
If anxiety is the cause, see your doctor or psychologist. Otherwise:
- Regular exercise
- Yoga and meditation
- Deep breathing exercises
- Reading before bed
- Reduce caffeine (coffee, soft drinks, chocolate)
- Avoid alcohol and smoking
- Consciously relax your jaw during the day
Two Perth locations, one phone number
Perth CBD clinic
Level 1, 300 Murray Street, Perth WA 6000
Mon–Thu 8:30am–5pm · Fri 8:30am–4:30pm · Closed weekends
DirectionsBelmont clinic
171 Belmont Avenue, Belmont WA 6104
Mon–Thu 8am–6pm · Fri 8am–4pm · Sat 8am–2pm · Free parking
DirectionsTeeth grinding questions, answered
How do I know if I grind my teeth?
Most people are unaware unless a partner notices the noise at night. Signs include morning headaches, sore jaw muscles, ear pain, trouble opening wide, facial stiffness, aching teeth. A dentist can spot wear patterns at a check-up.
Is a custom splint better than a chemist mouthguard?
Yes. Custom splints are made from harder plastic, fit your bite precisely and last several years. Off-the-shelf mouthguards from a chemist are less comfortable and less protective long-term.
Can children grind their teeth?
Yes, especially when baby teeth are falling out and adult teeth growing in. Usually harmless and stops once adult teeth settle. If a child complains of jaw pain or has worn teeth, see us — protection may be needed.
Will grinding stop on its own?
Usually not if stress, sleep apnoea or a bite issue is the cause. A splint protects the teeth while you address the underlying cause.
Are there alternatives to a splint?
Stress management, lifestyle changes and addressing causes (Sleep Apnoea evaluation, fixing high fillings) help long-term — but a splint protects the teeth immediately while you work on the cause.
How long does a custom splint last?
Several years with care. It's washable, durable and reshapable if needed.
Grinding your teeth? Protect them in Perth.
Call us — we'll examine the wear pattern, identify the cause and fit a custom splint that protects your teeth long-term.
$349 first emergency visit · same-day, subject to availability · Both Perth clinics
