IDENTAL logo



Grinding | Clenching









Cosmetic, Dental & Hygiene

Improve | Brighten | Maintain | Smile
COSMETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY | BALWYN NORTH









IDENTAL logo



Grinding, Clenching





Cosmetic, Dental & Hygiene

Improve | Brighten | Maintain | Smile
BEAUTIFUL DENTAL CARE | BALWYN



Treating dental grinding


Grinding options | At a glance



OPTIONS
Multiple
OCCLUSAL SPLINT
Worn every night
PRESCRIPTION
Active full time
PHYSIO
6 visits over time



Top Questions

TMJ disorder overview
What causes jaw pain?
What are the benefits of medical treatments for grinding?
Will I get a prescription?
What is an occlusal splint?
How do I decide what grinding treatment is best for me?

TMJ disorder overview


TMJ Disorder or TMD is caused by the improper function of the temporomandibular joint.

The jaw joint is a ball and socket joint, with a ligament disc between the two parts of the joint. When the joint is not working properly, the disc may be swollen in some areas, and thinned out in others. This leads to non-smooth movement of the joint. Often this is heard as clicking. Long-term swelling can lead to improper, limited or painful movement of the jaw.

Assessment usually involves a full mouth X-ray to visualise the joint, measuring and recording the movement of the jaw, and other tests.

Grinding and jaw pain is often caused by many factors, and needs to be addressed as a team approach, usually involving our local physiotherapist.

TMJ disorder fixed balwyn dentist
tmj pain dental
occlusal splint

What causes jaw pain?

When we clench or grind, the jaw joint itself is compressed, squashing all the soft tissues. This can lead to:
+ Tooth sensitivity, and damaged and worn teeth
+ Headaches and Migraines
+ Aching or stiffness in the jaw
+ Clicking or popping of your jaw
Once we have assessed your teeth and associated structures, we can treat you with a bite splint, and sometimes this is in conjunction with muscle relaxing injectables.

What is an occlusal splint?

Bite Splints

A bite splint is a hard, thin plate that fits over the upper teeth. It provides a smooth surface that is comfortable to bite on, so that the jaw joint is not under pressure from the tooth position. The joint and disc within it can settle down, relieving swelling, and allowing for normal movement to return. It is usually worn every night to protect the joints and muscles from night-time grinding.

Why a dental prescription for TMJ?

Have you tried a splint and found it difficult to tolerate? Or have you tried everything, but still need help with grinding?

Some patients do not want a splint or physiotherapy treatment, or they may not be suitable. Sometimes the best option for you after a consultation, is a prescription and then treatment by Dr Giulia D'Anna. After undertaking a thorough consultation with you, discussing the best treatment options, both you and Dr D'Anna will devise a plan that suits your condition, budget and desired outcomes. This type of treatment can be advantageous as it requires little daily effort by you!