Need Mouth Guards for Teeth Grinding in Adelaide?

Yes, mouth guards are highly effective in protecting teeth from the damage caused by grinding. They cushion the pressure, reduce enamel wear, and help relieve jaw tension. While they don’t stop the grinding itself, they prevent further harm and often ease related symptoms like headaches or jaw pain.

Some people experience initial discomfort, drooling, or difficulty adjusting to sleeping with a guard. Poorly fitted or over-the-counter guards may cause bite misalignment or sore jaws. However, custom-fitted night guards minimise these issues and are generally well-tolerated after a short adjustment period.

Alternatives include stress management techniques, physiotherapy, relaxing injections for jaw muscles, or treating underlying causes like misaligned teeth or sleep disorders. Behavioural therapy and relaxation exercises may help reduce grinding, but for physical protection, a mouth guard remains the most reliable option.

Disadvantages include potential discomfort, difficulty speaking clearly while wearing it, and the need for proper cleaning to avoid bacterial build-up. Over time, mouth guards may wear out and need replacement. Poorly fitted guards can cause bite changes or worsen jaw tension if not monitored.

An occlusal splint is a custom dental device worn over the teeth to manage bruxism, jaw tension, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. It helps stabilise the bite, relax the jaw muscles, and reduce teeth grinding, offering relief from pain, tension, and further dental wear.

A night guard primarily protects teeth from grinding damage, while an occlusal splint is a more specialised device used to treat jaw disorders like TMJ. Splints often cover more surface area, stabilise the bite, and are designed to modify jaw movement, not just protect enamel.

Typically, occlusal splints are worn at night while sleeping, though some may be prescribed for daytime use. Duration varies by case—some wear them short-term to relieve acute symptoms, while others may need ongoing use for chronic jaw issues. Your dentist will advise based on progress.

Cons include initial discomfort, increased salivation, and the need for regular maintenance and cleaning. In rare cases, prolonged use without monitoring can lead to bite changes. Splints must be custom-fitted; over-the-counter versions often lack the precision needed and may cause more harm than benefit.

Teeth grinding—also known as bruxism—is the involuntary clenching, grinding, or gnashing of teeth, often during sleep. While it may seem harmless at first, chronic grinding can wear down enamel, cause jaw pain, headaches, facial tension, cracked teeth, and even disrupt sleep quality. Over time, it can affect not just your teeth but your overall wellbeing.

The causes of bruxism vary widely. Stress and anxiety are common culprits, especially in adults. Some people clench their jaw in response to emotional tension or during intense concentration. Others may grind due to misaligned teeth, sleep disorders (like sleep apnoea), or even lifestyle factors such as excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption. In children, bruxism may be linked to growing jaws or teething.

Are mouth guards a good solution for teeth grinding? For many people, yes. Mouth guards are one of the most effective ways to protect the teeth and jaw from the physical damage caused by grinding.

Mouth guards create a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, cushioning the force of clenching and preventing the enamel from wearing down. They also help reduce muscle strain, which can ease jaw soreness and tension headaches.

However, not all mouth guards offer the same level of support. Over-the-counter versions may offer basic protection, but they tend to be bulky, uncomfortable, and less effective over time.

Custom-made guards, the ones professionally designed to fit your bite and jaw alignment, provide a much more comfortable and precise solution. These are typically thinner, more durable, and less likely to interfere with sleep.

That said, mouth guards don’t cure bruxism; instead, they manage the symptoms. That’s why the best approach goes beyond the guard itself.

At Unley Park Dental, we take the time to understand what’s contributing to your grinding, whether that’s physical, emotional, or behavioural. In some cases, addressing stress, improving sleep posture, or adjusting dental alignment can make a significant difference alongside using a guard.

In short, yes, mouth guards are an excellent option for managing teeth grinding, especially when they’re thoughtfully designed around your needs. They protect your teeth, improve comfort, and support better sleep. And when paired with holistic care, they become more than just a barrier; they become part of a broader solution that puts your long-term wellbeing first.

Do:

• Rinse your mouth guard with cool water after each use.
• Brush it gently using a soft toothbrush and mild soap (no toothpaste).
• Clean it weekly with a non-abrasive mouth guard cleaner or diluted vinegar solution.
• Dry it completely before storing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Store it in a ventilated, hard case to maintain its shape.
• Bring it to your dental appointments for regular checks and cleaning advice.

Don’t:

• Don’t use hot water. It can warp the material.
• Don’t clean with toothpaste, alcohol-based mouthwash, or bleach.
• Don’t chew on your mouth guard or alter its shape.
• Don’t leave it in direct sunlight or a hot car.
• Don’t wear it if it feels uncomfortable or damaged. Contact us for a review.

For those with bruxism (teeth grinding), a custom-fit mouth guard cushions the impact between upper and lower teeth, preventing enamel wear, cracks, and long-term dental damage. It also helps reduce strain on the jaw muscles, often relieving tension headaches, facial soreness, and jaw pain on waking.

For people who snore or have mild sleep apnoea, anti-snoring mouth guards reposition the jaw to keep the airway open during sleep. This can lead to quieter nights, deeper rest, and reduced daytime fatigue. Partners often benefit too, with less disrupted sleep.

Beyond the physical relief, there’s a psychological benefit too: better sleep, less pain, and peace of mind knowing your teeth and health are being protected. It’s a small device that can make a big difference in daily comfort, confidence, and long-term wellbeing, especially when guided by expert care that looks beyond the mouth alone.