Here are several types of places in Australia where you can seek help for bruxism or teeth grinding:
1. Dentists
Dentists are the first point of contact for bruxism. They can examine your teeth, diagnose the condition, and provide treatment options like mouthguards or splints. You can find a local dentist by searching through associations such as:
- Australian Dental Association (ADA): www.ada.org.au
- Find a dentist on Health Direct: www.healthdirect.gov.au
2. Orthodontists
If bruxism is related to a misaligned bite, an orthodontist may be able to help. Orthodontists specialize in teeth alignment and can provide braces or other treatments to improve bite alignment and reduce grinding. You could try:
- Australian Society of Orthodontists (ASO): www.orthodontics.org.au
3. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Specialists
If bruxism is affecting your jaw joints, you may want to consult a TMJ specialist. These specialists focus on diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders, which can be closely related to teeth grinding. Try:
- Australian Pain Management Association (APMA): www.painmanagement.org.au
4. Sleep Specialists
Bruxism can sometimes be linked to sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. Sleep specialists can conduct assessments and recommend treatment like CPAP machines or dental devices that address sleep-related issues.
- Sleep Health Foundation: www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au
- Australian Sleep Association: www.sleep.org.au
5. Psychologists or Therapists
Since stress and anxiety are common causes of bruxism, seeing a psychologist or therapist can help address the emotional or psychological triggers. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often effective for managing stress, anxiety, or any other underlying mental health issues.
- Australian Psychological Society (APS): www.psychology.org.au
- Find a therapist through Health Direct: www.healthdirect.gov.au
6. Pain Clinics
If you experience significant pain due to bruxism, pain clinics can help manage symptoms through various treatments, including physiotherapy, medications, and lifestyle advice.
- Australian Pain Society: www.apsoc.org.au
7. Chiropractors
In some cases, chiropractors may help with bruxism-related jaw and neck pain, especially if it's caused by muscle tension or misalignment. Look for chiropractors with experience in treating bruxism or TMJ disorders.
- Chiropractic Association of Australia: www.chiropractors.asn.au
8. Natural Therapists
Acupuncture, massage therapy, or naturopathy can help with stress reduction and muscle relaxation, both of which may help alleviate bruxism. Look for a qualified practitioner who specializes in managing stress-related conditions. You could try:
- Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS): www.atms.com.au
By consulting these professionals, you can receive tailored care and treatments that will help manage or resolve bruxism.
