Teeth Grinding Treatment for Finchley Central Patients

Many people grind their teeth occasionally without issue, but persistent bruxism requires professional attention. You should consider booking a consultation if you regularly experience symptoms like persistent dull headaches, especially in the mornings, or aching jaw muscles that feel tired or tight. Other clear signs include teeth that look flattened, worn down, or chipped, and increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold. Some people are told by their partner that they make a grinding sound in their sleep. This treatment is also right for you if you've tried over-the-counter guards without success and want a professionally fitted device for better comfort and protection. Our Finchley practice is easily accessible for anyone in the Finchley Central area seeking a proper diagnosis.

Your path to relief starts with a thorough 60 minute consultation. First, Dr. Reddy will discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history to understand potential triggers like stress. Next, we'll perform a detailed examination of your teeth, jaw and facial muscles to assess the wear and tenderness. Using our digital imaging technology, we'll take precise 3D scans of your teeth to design a custom fit occlusal splint, or night guard. There's no need for messy impressions. Then, your custom guard is crafted by a specialist lab, which typically takes 1 to 2 weeks. Finally, you'll return for a 30 minute fitting appointment where we ensure the guard fits perfectly and provide instructions on how to use and care for it.

Getting used to a night guard takes a few nights. In the first week, it might feel a bit strange, but it shouldn't be painful. Your main aftercare task is hygiene: clean your splint every morning with a soft toothbrush and cool water, and store it in its protective case. Over the long term, bring your night guard to every dental check up so we can inspect it for wear and ensure it still fits correctly. Most custom made splints last for several years with proper care. You should call our practice during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7) if you experience any sharp pain, if the guard feels loose, or if your jaw symptoms worsen. For emergencies outside these hours, please call 111 or visit your nearest A&E.

While a custom night guard is the most direct way to protect your teeth, other strategies can help manage the underlying causes. Stress and anxiety are major contributors, so techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or cognitive behavioural therapy CBT can be very effective. Physiotherapy can also help by providing exercises to relax and strengthen the jaw muscles. In some cases, minor adjustments to your bite may be suggested if misalignment is a factor. However, this is less common. We'll discuss all suitable options for your situation during your consultation at our Finchley clinic.

To choose what’s right for you, it helps to ask some key questions, whether you consult with us or another practice in North London. Consider asking: What material will the night guard be made from, and is it hard or soft? How long can I expect the custom guard to last with nightly use? Does the quoted price include the consultation, scans, fitting, and any follow up adjustments? Are there any other treatments I should consider alongside the night guard, like stress management? What are the signs that my bruxism is causing permanent damage?

The cost for a custom made occlusal splint will be provided following your initial consultation, as it depends on the specific design required for your needs. We believe in full transparency with no hidden fees. The quoted price will cover your assessment, digital scans, the fabrication of your device, and the final fitting appointment. As a private dental practice, we do not offer NHS treatment. However, we do accept several private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please contact us with your policy details, and we can help you understand your coverage for bruxism treatment.