Affordable Teeth Grinding Treatment for West Finchley Patients

Bruxism often happens during sleep, so many people do not realise they grind their teeth. Look for signs: persistent dull headaches on waking, a sore jaw, flattened or chipped teeth, or higher tooth sensitivity. A partner may hear grinding at night. Bruxism affects about 8 to 10 percent of the UK population. Left untreated, it leads to dental problems. If you notice these symptoms in West Finchley, visit our Finchley practice for a clear diagnosis.

Getting a custom night guard is straightforward. First visit is a 30 minute consultation to check for wear and discuss symptoms. If a splint suits you, we take a precise digital scan or impression of your teeth. This quick process yields a guard made in a lab over 1 to 2 weeks. Then a 15 minute fitting appointment confirms fit and comfort with any minor adjustments. We show you how to care for the guard to ensure it lasts for years.

There is no recovery period for a night guard, but it takes a few nights to adjust. Immediate aftercare focuses on hygiene and proper use. Clean your splint each morning with a soft toothbrush and cool water. Do not use hot water. Store it in its protective case when not in use. Bring the night guard to regular dental check-ups so we inspect it for wear and tear. If you notice cracks or it feels loose, call us for an assessment. For urgent concerns, call during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7).

While a custom splint remains the main way to protect teeth, lifestyle changes help address bruxism. Stress and anxiety are major contributors, so mindfulness, exercise, or yoga support relief. Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, especially at night, lowers grinding intensity. For severe cases, some practitioners offer Botox injections into the jaw muscles to reduce force; this is more invasive and temporary. We discuss these adjustments during your consultation to build a complete management plan.

To get the best value and care, ask these questions of any dentist, whether at our Finchley practice or another. Inquire about the material of the night guard and its expected life. Check if the quoted price includes the initial consultation, impressions, the device, and the final fitting. Ask about the warranty against manufacturing defects. Ask what happens if the guard does not fit comfortably. A reputable dentist offers free adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.

Your custom night guard from a private dentist in London typically costs between £250 and £450. This is higher than an over-the-counter option but still a solid investment. A professionally fitted splint offers superior protection, comfort, and durability, preventing costly procedures like crowns or fillings which run from £800 to £1500 per tooth. One patient from West Finchley cracked two molars from grinding after a cheap online guard broke; the cost of a custom splint was far less than subsequent repair bills. Another patient, a commuter from Finchley Central, found that the guard reduced tension headaches and improved life quality. We are a private practice but accept insurance from Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna, which covers part of the cost.