Night Guards & Bruxism: How to Stop Grinding Your Teeth

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the medical term for involuntary teeth grinding or jaw clenching. It can happen while you are awake (awake bruxism) or during sleep (sleep bruxism). Sleep bruxism is classified as a sleep-related movement disorder and is often harder to detect because you may not realise you are doing it until symptoms appear or a partner notices the sounds.

Occasional teeth grinding is common and usually harmless. However, when bruxism becomes frequent and severe, it can lead to significant damage to your teeth, jaw joints (TMJ), and surrounding muscles. Left untreated, chronic bruxism can crack or fracture teeth, wear down enamel to the point where dental crowns or other restorations are needed, and contribute to chronic jaw and head pain.

Signs and Symptoms of Bruxism

Many people grind their teeth without knowing it. Watch out for these common signs:

• Morning jaw pain or stiffness — your jaw feels sore or tight when you wake up
• Frequent headaches — especially dull headaches starting at the temples
• Tooth sensitivity — increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods without visible cavities
• Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth — your dentist may notice unusual wear patterns during a routine check-up
• Earache-like pain — pain near the ear that is not caused by an ear infection
• Disrupted sleep — your partner may hear grinding sounds at night
• Tight or fatigued jaw muscles — difficulty opening your mouth wide, or a locked jaw
• Indentations on the tongue — scalloped edges along the sides of your tongue from clenching

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is worth scheduling a dental check-up. Early detection can prevent more costly and invasive treatment down the line.

What Causes Bruxism?

Bruxism does not have a single cause. It is usually the result of a combination of factors:

Stress and Anxiety

Emotional stress is the most common trigger for both awake and sleep bruxism. People under work pressure, dealing with major life changes, or experiencing anxiety disorders are significantly more likely to grind their teeth. Awake bruxism in particular is closely linked to periods of concentration, frustration, or tension.

Sleep Disorders

Sleep bruxism is strongly associated with other sleep disorders, especially obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Research suggests that micro-arousals during sleep — brief interruptions in the sleep cycle — can trigger grinding episodes. If you snore heavily or feel excessively tired during the day, a sleep study may be recommended alongside bruxism treatment.

Bite Misalignment (Malocclusion)

An abnormal bite — where your upper and lower teeth do not meet properly — can contribute to grinding. Crooked teeth, missing teeth, or an uneven bite create uneven pressure that may trigger clenching as your jaw tries to find a comfortable resting position.

Lifestyle Factors

Several habits and substances can increase the risk or severity of bruxism:

• Caffeine and alcohol — both are linked to higher rates of sleep bruxism
• Smoking — smokers are roughly twice as likely to grind their teeth
• Certain medications — some antidepressants (SSRIs), ADHD medications, and recreational drugs can cause or worsen bruxism as a side effect

Genetics

Bruxism tends to run in families. If a parent or sibling grinds their teeth, you are more likely to develop the habit as well.

Types of Night Guards

A night guard (also called an occlusal splint or bite guard) is a removable dental appliance worn over your teeth while you sleep. It does not stop you from grinding, but it absorbs the force and prevents direct tooth-to-tooth contact, protecting your enamel, restorations, and jaw joints.

Custom-Made Night Guards (From Your Dentist)

Custom night guards are fabricated from precise moulds or digital scans of your teeth. They offer the best fit, comfort, and durability. Your dentist will recommend one of three types based on the severity of your bruxism:

• Soft night guards — made from flexible material, best for mild grinding or occasional clenchers. They are the most comfortable but wear out faster.
• Hard acrylic night guards — rigid and highly durable, designed for moderate to severe bruxism. These last the longest (typically 2–5 years) and provide the most protection.
• Dual-laminate (hybrid) night guards — soft on the inside for comfort, hard on the outside for durability. A good middle-ground option for moderate grinders.

Custom night guards in Singapore typically cost between $300 and $800 depending on the type and dental clinic. While the upfront cost is higher than store-bought options, the superior fit means better protection and longer lifespan.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Night Guards

OTC night guards are available at pharmacies and online. The two main types are:

• Stock (one-size-fits-all) guards — pre-formed and ready to use. They are cheap ($10–$30) but bulky, uncomfortable, and offer minimal protection.
• Boil-and-bite guards — softened in hot water and moulded to your teeth by biting down. Better than stock guards but still far less precise than a custom-made appliance ($20–$60).

OTC guards can be a temporary solution, but they are not recommended for long-term use. A poor fit can actually shift your bite, worsen TMJ symptoms, or provide inadequate protection for severe grinders.

Other Bruxism Treatment Options

Night guards manage the symptoms of bruxism, but addressing the root cause may require additional treatment. Depending on your situation, your dentist may recommend one or more of the following:

Botox Injections for Jaw Clenching

Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections into the masseter muscles can reduce the force of clenching and grinding. The treatment relaxes the overactive jaw muscles without affecting normal functions like chewing and speaking. Results typically last 3–6 months, and repeat sessions are needed. This is an increasingly popular option for patients with severe bruxism or TMJ pain that does not respond to splint therapy alone.

Stress Management

Since stress is a major trigger, managing it can significantly reduce grinding. Effective approaches include:

• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
• Regular exercise
• Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
• Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, especially in the evening

Bite Adjustment and Orthodontic Treatment

If malocclusion contributes to your bruxism, correcting your bite with braces, Invisalign, or selective tooth reshaping may help. Your dentist will assess whether bite correction is appropriate as part of your treatment plan.

Treating Underlying Sleep Disorders

If sleep bruxism is linked to sleep apnoea or another sleep disorder, treating the underlying condition often reduces grinding. This may involve a referral to a sleep specialist for a sleep study and potential CPAP therapy.

Dental Restorations

For teeth already damaged by bruxism, restorative treatment may be necessary. This can include dental crowns to rebuild cracked or severely worn teeth, or root canal treatment if grinding has caused nerve damage. Addressing existing damage early prevents more extensive (and expensive) treatment later.

When to See a Dentist About Teeth Grinding

You should book a dental appointment if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent jaw pain, stiffness, or clicking
• Frequent morning headaches
• Visibly worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
• Increased tooth sensitivity without an obvious cause
• Your partner reports hearing you grind your teeth at night
• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth fully

Your dentist will examine your teeth for wear patterns, assess your jaw joints, and discuss your symptoms and lifestyle. Based on the findings, they will recommend the most appropriate treatment — whether that is a custom night guard, a referral for further investigation, or a combination of approaches.

Regular dental check-ups are also important for catching bruxism early. Your dentist can identify wear patterns before you notice symptoms, allowing for preventive treatment. A routine scaling and polishing (from $85 before GST at Trust Dental) also keeps your teeth and gums healthy, which supports better outcomes from any bruxism treatment.

Night Guards and Bruxism Treatment at Trust Dental

At Trust Dental Surgery, we see patients with bruxism regularly at both our Jurong West and Clementi clinics. Our approach starts with a thorough examination of your teeth, jaw joints, and bite alignment. If a night guard is recommended, we take precise impressions or digital scans of your teeth to fabricate a custom-fit appliance that is comfortable to wear every night.

We also take a holistic view of bruxism treatment. If your grinding is linked to bite issues, stress, or a suspected sleep disorder, we will discuss the full range of options and refer you to the appropriate specialist when needed. For teeth already damaged by grinding, we offer restorative solutions including dental crowns and root canal treatment to protect and restore your teeth.

Not sure if you need a night guard? Book a consultation and let us assess your teeth. Early intervention is always easier and more affordable than treating advanced damage.