Got Any Questions? Call the team on: 01442-252980.
Waking up with a tight jaw? Headaches that seem to come from nowhere? Teeth that keep chipping, cracking, or flattening down? You might be grinding or clenching, often in your sleep, and often without realising it.
Tooth grinding (also called bruxism) is incredibly common, especially during times of stress, and it can silently do serious damage over time. What starts as tightness or jaw discomfort can eventually lead to shortened teeth, broken
fillings, sensitivity, or even tooth loss.
Many patients don’t, until we spot the signs. Flattened biting edges, cracked fillings, jaw muscle enlargement, and even receding gums in some cases can all hint at a grinding habit.
Absolutely. Tension from constant clenching puts your facial and neck muscles under strain, especially overnight. Many people find their morning headaches vanish once they start wearing a splint.
So what’s the solution?
We custom-make nightguards (also called splints) that fit over your teeth and help cushion the effects of grinding. It doesn’t stop the habit, but it protects your teeth and joints while your brain sleeps.
I once had a patient who threw theirs out the window in their sleep, it was found on the lawn the next morning. So yes, it can take a bit of adjusting. But if you don’t wear one, the damage continues. Crowns fracture, teeth wear down, and once that height is lost, it’s hard to rebuild without major dentistry.
You can, but they tend to be bulky and not custom-fitted. That can make them harder to tolerate and less effective. If cost is an issue, we’re happy to talk through phased options.
Here’s the thing, once the damage is done, it’s done. Teeth don’t grow back. A splint is a small investment that can save you a fortune in restorative work later. Think of it as a helmet for your teeth, not always glamorous, but incredibly wise.
We’re not here to lecture. We’re here to help. If you’re waking up tense, grinding through stress, or finding your smile slowly disappearing, this might be the most important small change you ever make.
Let’s protect what you’ve got before it becomes what you had.
