May 18, 2026
Night grinding (bruxism) — signs and night guards
Prevention
Waking with jaw pain or worn teeth? Learn the signs of teeth grinding (bruxism), what a custom night guard does, and when to see a dentist in Sydney. Berala Dental.
Waking with jaw pain or worn teeth? Learn the signs of teeth grinding (bruxism), what a custom night guard does, and when to see a dentist in Sydney. Berala Dental.
The honest answer: teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism) often happens during sleep without you knowing, and the most common protective treatment is a custom-fitted night guard (occlusal splint) that cushions your teeth and reduces the damage from grinding. A night guard does not cure the grinding itself, but it protects your teeth and can ease the jaw strain that comes with it.
Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching the teeth, often during sleep but sometimes while awake and concentrating or stressed. Many people do not realise they do it until a partner hears the grinding, or a dentist spots the wear on their teeth during a check-up.
If you notice several of these, it is worth mentioning at your next dental visit so the cause can be assessed.
The exact cause is not always clear, but bruxism is commonly linked with stress and anxiety, sleep disturbances (including snoring and sleep apnoea), certain medications, caffeine and alcohol, and an uneven bite. Because the triggers vary, the right approach is tailored to you after an examination.
A custom night guard is a thin, custom-made appliance worn over your teeth while you sleep. It works by:
A custom guard made from an impression of your teeth fits better and is more comfortable and durable than a generic over-the-counter version, which means you are more likely to actually wear it.
Protecting the teeth with a guard is one part of the picture; addressing the triggers is another. Depending on what is driving your grinding, that might involve managing stress, improving sleep habits, reducing caffeine and alcohol before bed, or investigating snoring or disrupted sleep. Where a sleep-related cause is suspected, your dentist may suggest discussing it with your GP or a relevant specialist. The plan is shaped around what is contributing in your case.
Left unmanaged, ongoing grinding can wear teeth down, crack them, loosen fillings or crowns, and contribute to jaw pain and headaches. Worn or cracked teeth can need more involved treatment later, so protecting them early is usually simpler and kinder to your teeth.
Off-the-shelf guards are cheaper and available immediately, but they fit less precisely, can feel bulky, and may not last as long. A custom guard is moulded to your teeth, so it tends to be more comfortable and protective, which makes it easier to wear every night.
The cost depends on the type of guard, so we will provide a written quote after examining your teeth. Many extras policies contribute towards night guards (often called occlusal splints), so check your rebate with your health fund. See our fees page for general information.
With good care a custom night guard can last several years, though heavy grinders may wear through one sooner. Bring it to your check-ups so its condition and fit can be reviewed.
Yes, grinding is common in children and many grow out of it. It is worth mentioning at their dental visits so it can be monitored. You can read more on our dentistry for kids page.
If you wake with jaw pain or have noticed your teeth wearing down, an examination is the way to find out what is going on and whether a night guard would help. Book online, call (02) 9649 6468, or click our WhatsApp to chat now: message Berala Dental on WhatsApp.
We review this article periodically so the information stays current for 2026.