Relief From Discomfort

Treatment for Bruxism in London, ON

What is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching the teeth, often during sleep or times of stress. Over time, this can place excessive pressure on the teeth, jaw joints, and surrounding muscles, leading to discomfort and damage if left untreated.


Common signs of bruxism may include worn or flattened teeth, notching near the gumline, receding gums, tenderness in the muscles of the face, headaches, jaw pain, and clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint. In some patients, the chewing muscles may also appear enlarged due to overuse.


At Blue Heron Dental Centre, Dr. Kabak and Dr. Yurchuk pay close attention to these signs to help prevent the long-term effects of grinding and clenching on both dental health and overall comfort.

How Bruxism and TMJ Concerns Are Treated

Treatment for bruxism and related TMJ concerns depends on the cause, severity, and symptoms involved. The goal is to reduce muscle tension, protect the teeth, improve jaw function, and help patients feel more comfortable day-to-day.


Treatment may include patient education, self-regulation strategies such as relaxation techniques and improved sleep habits, splints or night guards, medications, adjustment of the biting surfaces of the teeth, orthodontic treatment, botulinum toxin injections into the chewing muscles, or supportive physiotherapy approaches.


Night guards and splints are often an important part of treatment because they can help reduce muscle strain, protect teeth from further wear, improve jaw positioning, and decrease pressure on the jaw joints.

Types of Appliances

Different types of appliances may be recommended depending on the patient’s symptoms, bite, and treatment goals. Some are used for long-term protection, while others are intended for short-term relief or specific jaw concerns.

  • Traditional Thermoplastic Night Guard / Michigan Splint

    This is one of the most common appliances used for bruxism. It is a full-coverage splint placed on either the upper or lower arch and is designed to help stabilize the jaw, protect the teeth, and reduce muscle tension. It is often considered one of the most stable and reliable options with the fewest adverse effects.

  • Anterior Bite Plane

    This appliance covers the roof of the mouth and the front teeth. It may help decrease muscle activity and grinding intensity, but it is generally used with caution because prolonged use may allow the back teeth to erupt or shift.

  • Mini Anterior Bite Plane / Lucia Jig

    This smaller appliance covers only a few of the front teeth. It can sometimes provide fast relief for headaches, muscle pain, or TMJ discomfort and may be made chairside during a diagnostic or emergency visit. It is not designed for long-term use, as it may affect the bite over time.

  • Anterior Repositioning Appliance

    This splint includes a guiding ramp that helps position the lower jaw slightly forward when closing. It may be used in cases where the TMJ disc is not moving properly or is causing pain. Because it can change the bite if worn too long, it is usually used for a limited period.

  • Pivot Appliances

    Pivot appliances are used to help reduce TMJ symptoms by decreasing pressure inside the joint. They contact specific back teeth and are typically intended for short-term use in selected jaw cases.

  • Hydrostatic Appliance

    This type of appliance is designed to help manage jaw discomfort and muscle tension in certain cases. It is generally used as part of a broader plan based on the patient’s symptoms and function.

  • Soft Splints

    Soft splints are sometimes used for mild grinding and clenching. They are made from a softer material and may feel more comfortable for some patients, though rigid splints often provide better long-term control and adjustment.

  • Materials Used For Splints And Guards

    Night guards and splints may be made from hard, soft, or combination materials. Hard occlusal splints are often preferred for stronger control of muscle tension, better bite adjustment, and long-term durability. Soft guards may be used in selected mild cases, while combination appliances include both hard and soft layers.

Why Treatment Matters

Bruxism can place much more pressure on the teeth and jaw than normal chewing. Over time, that force can lead to tooth wear, cracked teeth, jaw discomfort, muscle fatigue, and joint symptoms. Early treatment can help reduce these effects and prevent more extensive problems from developing.


By identifying the signs of bruxism and choosing the right treatment approach, patients can protect their teeth, reduce pain, and improve daily comfort. Blue Heron Dental Centre provides personalized care to help manage grinding, clenching, and TMJ-related concerns with long-term function in mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the common signs of bruxism?

    Common signs of bruxism include worn or flattened teeth, pain or tightness in the muscles of the face, headaches, jaw discomfort, notching near the gumline, receding gums, and clicking or popping in the jaw joint. Some patients may not realize they grind or clench until the effects become noticeable during an exam.

  • Can bruxism damage my teeth?

    Yes. Grinding and clenching can place significant pressure on the teeth, leading to progressive wear, cracks, chips, and damage to existing restorations. Over time, it may also affect the gums, jaw joints, and facial muscles. Treating bruxism early can help reduce this damage and protect long-term oral health.

  • How do night guards help with bruxism?

    Night guards and splints help by reducing muscle strain, protecting the teeth from direct wear, and improving how pressure is distributed during clenching or grinding. Depending on the type of appliance used, they may also support better jaw positioning and help relieve headaches, facial soreness, or TMJ symptoms.

  • Are all night guards the same?

    No. Different appliances are designed for different functions and symptoms. Some are used for long-term stabilization, while others are intended for short-term relief or specific TMJ concerns. The most appropriate type depends on your bite, symptoms, and treatment goals, which is why a professional assessment is important.

  • Can bruxism treatment involve more than a night guard?

    Yes. Treatment may include more than just an appliance. Depending on the cause and severity, it may also involve stress reduction strategies, better sleep habits, bite adjustment, orthodontic treatment, medication, physiotherapy, or other supportive therapies. A personalized plan often provides the best long-term results.