11 / 12 · Alanya Dental Help
Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching the teeth, either during sleep or while awake, often without being aware of it. At Alanya Dental Help, our dental clinic in Alanya, we help patients recognise the signs of bruxism, protect their teeth with a custom-made night guard and repair any damage that grinding may already have caused. Many people only find out they grind their teeth when a dentist notices the wear.
Bruxism has several possible contributing factors, including stress, sleep problems, certain medications, caffeine or alcohol and an uneven bite. Over time it can wear down enamel, crack teeth or restorations and strain the jaw muscles and joints. During your free consultation, Dt. Duygu Gürleyen examines your teeth, jaw muscles and bite and explains, in plain language, which management options are suitable for you.
Common signs of bruxism
If you notice any of the following, an examination can help find out whether bruxism is the cause:
- Flattened, worn or chipped teeth
- Jaw pain or tired jaw muscles in the morning
- Headaches, especially around the temples
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Clicking or discomfort in the jaw joint
- A partner hearing grinding at night
How bruxism is treated
There is no single cure for bruxism, but its effects can be managed well. The most common dental approach is a custom-made night guard: a thin acrylic splint worn during sleep that protects the teeth from grinding forces and can help the jaw muscles relax.
Where teeth are already damaged, we may recommend fillings, crowns or other restorations. Reducing stress, limiting caffeine and alcohol in the evening and jaw relaxation exercises can also help, and if a sleep disorder is suspected, we may suggest seeing your doctor.
Why protecting your teeth matters
Untreated grinding can gradually shorten the teeth, wear through enamel and cause fractures that need more extensive treatment later. If you have veneers, crowns or implants, a night guard is particularly important to protect them.
Caring for your night guard
Rinse the guard after each use, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and cold water, and keep it in its case. Avoid hot water, which can distort it, and bring it to your check-ups so we can assess its fit and wear.
Bruxism care in Alanya
A night guard can usually be made within a few days, so it is easy to arrange during a short stay. If you are already having dental treatment in Turkey, such as veneers or crowns, we can include a guard in your plan so that your new restorations are protected from the start.
Treatment process step by step
- 1
Consultation
We discuss your symptoms, sleep and lifestyle, and ask about jaw pain or headaches.
- 2
Examination
We check the teeth for wear, examine the jaw muscles and joints and assess your bite.
- 3
Scans or impressions
Digital scans or impressions are taken to make a custom night guard.
- 4
Fitting the guard
The guard is fitted and adjusted so that it is comfortable and your bite feels even.
- 5
Follow-up
We review your symptoms and the fit of the guard, and treat any damaged teeth if needed.
- Protects teeth from wear and fractures
- Custom-made, comfortable night guard
- Can help ease jaw muscle tension
- Protects veneers, crowns and implants
- Looks at both causes and damage
Frequently Asked Questions
Can bruxism be cured?
Bruxism often cannot be eliminated completely, but it can be managed effectively. A night guard protects the teeth, while reducing stress and other contributing factors can lessen grinding over time.
Is a custom guard better than one from a pharmacy?
A custom guard is made from scans of your own teeth, so it usually fits more precisely, feels more comfortable and is less likely to affect your bite. Poorly fitting guards are often uncomfortable and end up not being worn.
Will I get used to wearing a night guard?
Most people adapt within a few nights. It may feel unusual at first and you might notice extra saliva, but this usually settles quickly.
Can grinding damage my veneers or crowns?
Yes, strong grinding forces can chip or crack restorations. That is why we often recommend a night guard for patients with bruxism who have veneers, crowns or implants.
Do children grind their teeth too?
Yes, grinding is not unusual in children and often decreases as they grow. If it causes visible wear or pain, a dental check-up is recommended.
