Teeth Grinding Treatment in Finchley for Jaw Pain & Headaches

If you notice one or more symptoms regularly, consider seeking professional help. A persistent jaw ache or tenderness, especially in the morning, is common. A dull temple headache is another clue. Your partner might hear grinding at night. Over time, teeth can look flatter, worn, or chipped, increasing sensitivity. If this sounds familiar, arrange a professional assessment at our Finchley practice to confirm bruxism as the cause and prevent further damage before it becomes severe.

During a bruxism consultation you will have a 30-minute session to discuss symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history to identify triggers such as stress. Then we perform a thorough exam of teeth, gums, and jaw muscles to spot wear and tenderness. If a night guard fits your plan, we take precise digital scans or impressions of your teeth, a quick and comfortable process. Your custom guard will be ready in about 1 to 2 weeks. Finally, a 15-minute fitting ensures comfort and gives instructions on use and care.

Our main treatment is a custom-made occlusal splint, or night guard. This is not like bulky boil-and-bite guards bought online. Made from durable acrylic, our guards are designed from a precise scan to fit perfectly. The guard creates a barrier between upper and lower teeth, absorbing grinding forces and protecting enamel. For example, a patient from North Finchley in a high-stress job found morning headaches disappeared within a week of wearing the guard. It does not stop the grinding reflex, but it protects teeth from damage.

A new night guard may feel unusual for the first nights, but most patients adjust within a week. Clean the guard each morning with a soft toothbrush and cool water. We check fit at regular dental visits to ensure ongoing protection. Long term, maintain good oral hygiene and bring the guard to every visit. Watch for cracks, damage, or looseness. If any of these occur, call our practice during office hours (Mon Wed Fri 9 to 5, Tue Thu 11 to 7) for an adjustment, since a poorly fitting guard loses effectiveness.

While a night guard protects teeth, addressing the root cause matters. For stress-related bruxism we often recommend mindfulness, exercise, or reducing caffeine. Some cases stem from a misaligned bite; if we identify this, we may discuss orthodontic options like Invisalign to improve how teeth meet. Another patient from East Finchley noticed teeth shortening. A custom guard stopped further damage and offered peace of mind while she worked on stress management.

To choose the right approach, ask questions whether you consult with us or another practice in Finchley. Inquire about the material the night guard is made from and its expected lifespan. Ask whether the price covers the consultation, scans, fitting, and future adjustments. Find out what signs of damage they monitor and how they track progress. Finally ask if they see other underlying issues such as bite problems contributing to grinding.

As a private practice we do not offer NHS treatment for bruxism. The cost for a custom-made night guard starts from around £350. This includes impressions or digital scans, fabrication, and fitting. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Our plans are explained clearly and we accept several private insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Contact our team to discuss coverage and get a personalised cost estimate.