Last updated: January 2026. This guide covers teeth grinding (bruxism) treatment in the UK, including NHS and private night guard costs, causes, symptoms, and when to see a dentist.
Do you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or sensitive teeth? You might be grinding your teeth at night without realising it. Teeth grinding, medically known as bruxism, affects up to 10 million adults in the UK, and most people don't know they're doing it until the damage is done.
This comprehensive guide explains what causes teeth grinding, how to recognise the signs, and the full range of treatment options available in the UK—from NHS night guards to private solutions and natural remedies.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the medical term for clenching your jaw and grinding your teeth, either during the day (awake bruxism) or while you sleep (sleep bruxism). Sleep bruxism is particularly problematic because you can't consciously stop yourself.
"Teeth grinding (also called bruxism) is often related to stress or anxiety." — NHS
The condition can range from occasional and mild to severe and chronic. Without treatment, persistent grinding can cause significant damage to your teeth, jaw, and overall quality of life.
How Common Is Teeth Grinding?
Bruxism is more common than many people realise:
| Statistic | Source |
|---|---|
| 6-10 million UK adults affected | The Bruxism Association |
| 8-10% of the UK population | NHS estimates |
| 70% of cases caused by stress or anxiety | NHS |
| 3 in 10 children grind teeth before age 5 | NHS |
Research published in the British Dental Journal noted increased reports of bruxism during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, correlating with higher stress and anxiety levels across the population.
Signs and Symptoms of Teeth Grinding
Many people grind their teeth for months or years without knowing. The NHS identifies these common symptoms:
Dental Signs:
- Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Loose teeth or lost fillings
- Damaged dental work
Physical Symptoms:
- Jaw pain or stiffness, especially in the morning
- Facial, neck, and shoulder pain
- Headaches, particularly around the temples
- Earache (without an ear infection)
Sleep-Related Signs:
- Disrupted sleep
- Partner reports hearing grinding sounds
- Waking with a tired or tight jaw
"Jaw pain potentially leading to temporomandibular disorder (TMD)" — NHS
If your partner has mentioned hearing you grind your teeth at night, or you regularly wake with jaw pain or headaches, it's worth speaking to your dentist.
What Causes Teeth Grinding?
Understanding the cause of your bruxism helps determine the most effective treatment approach.
Primary Cause: Stress and Anxiety
"Stress and anxiety – this is the most common cause of teeth grinding" — NHS
The NHS identifies stress as the leading cause, responsible for approximately 70% of cases. Work pressures, financial worries, relationship issues, or major life changes can all trigger or worsen grinding.
Other Contributing Factors
| Factor | How It Contributes |
|---|---|
| Sleep disorders | Sleep apnoea and snoring are closely linked to bruxism |
| Medications | SSRIs (antidepressants) can cause or worsen grinding |
| Lifestyle | Smoking, alcohol, caffeine, and recreational drugs |
| Bite problems | Misaligned teeth or jaw can contribute |
| Genetics | Bruxism can run in families |
"Certain medicines, particularly a type of antidepressant known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)" — NHS
If you're taking SSRIs and notice increased grinding, discuss this with your GP—they may be able to adjust your medication or timing.
Night Guard Costs: NHS vs Private
A custom-fitted night guard (also called a dental splint or occlusal guard) is the most common treatment for bruxism. Here's what you can expect to pay.
NHS Night Guard Costs (2026)
Night guards requiring laboratory fabrication fall under NHS Band 3 treatment.
| Nation | Band 3 Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| England | £326.70 | Effective 1 April 2025 |
| Wales | £260.00 | 20% cheaper than England |
| Scotland | Max £384 | Patients pay 80% of costs, capped |
| Northern Ireland | Varies | Similar 80% contribution system |
"Band 3: £326.70 - complex treatments including crowns, dentures and bridges" — NHS Business Services Authority
What's Included in NHS Treatment:
- Initial consultation and diagnosis
- Dental impressions
- Laboratory-made custom night guard
- Fitting appointment
- Adjustments as needed
Important: A simple bite adjustment that doesn't require laboratory work may fall under Band 2 (£75.30 in England), but most custom night guards for bruxism require lab fabrication and therefore fall under Band 3.
Private Night Guard Costs
Private treatment offers faster access and more material options.
| Treatment Type | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard custom guard | £150–£350 | Most common option |
| Premium custom guard | £350–£600 | Advanced materials, longer warranty |
| London clinics | £200–£600 | Higher due to overheads |
| Online custom guards | £50–£120 | Home impression kits, no dental visit |
| Over-the-counter guards | £15–£25 | Pharmacies, limited effectiveness |
Factors Affecting Private Costs:
- Material type: Soft guards are cheaper than hard acrylic
- Complexity: Severe grinding may require thicker, more durable guards
- Location: Central London practices typically charge 20-30% more
- Additional features: TMJ therapy integration can cost £300–£1,500
NHS vs Private: Which Should You Choose?
| Factor | NHS | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £326.70 (England) | £150–£600 |
| Waiting time | Can be weeks/months | Usually within days |
| Materials | Clinically appropriate | Full range available |
| Appointment flexibility | Limited | More flexible |
| Finding availability | Can be difficult | Widely available |
If you're eligible for free NHS treatment (see below), the NHS route makes financial sense. Otherwise, private treatment may be faster and offer more options, though potentially at higher cost.
Who Gets Free NHS Dental Treatment?
Certain groups qualify for free NHS dental treatment, including night guards.
Automatic Eligibility
"You can get free NHS dental treatment if you're aged under 18, or under 19 and in full-time education." — NHS
You qualify for free treatment if you are:
- Under 18 years old
- Under 19 and in full-time education
- Pregnant (with maternity exemption certificate)
- Have had a baby in the last 12 months
- Receiving certain qualifying benefits
Benefits-Based Eligibility
"You can also get free NHS dental treatment if you or your partner receive certain benefits" — NHS
Qualifying benefits include:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- Universal Credit (if earnings are £435 or less, or £935 with child/work elements)
NHS Low Income Scheme
If you're on a low income but don't receive qualifying benefits, apply for an HC2 or HC3 certificate through the NHS Low Income Scheme.
| Certificate | Coverage |
|---|---|
| HC2 | Full help—free NHS dental treatment |
| HC3 | Partial help—reduced contribution |
Apply using the HC1 form, available from NHS hospitals, dentists, or online at nhsbsa.nhs.uk.
Types of Night Guards Compared
Not all night guards are equal. Understanding the options helps you make an informed choice.
Custom-Fitted Night Guards (Best Option)
Cost: £326.70 NHS / £150–£600 private
Custom guards are made from impressions of your teeth, ensuring a precise fit. They're the most effective and comfortable option.
Process:
- Dentist takes impressions of your teeth
- Sent to dental laboratory for fabrication
- Return visit for fitting and adjustments
- Typically ready within 1-2 weeks
Advantages:
- Perfect fit for your teeth
- Most comfortable to wear
- Best protection against grinding damage
- Can be made in different materials and thicknesses
Online Custom Night Guards
Cost: £50–£120
These use home impression kits that you mail to a laboratory.
Considerations:
- No professional supervision or examination
- Risk of incorrect impressions
- No follow-up adjustments included
- Quality varies significantly by provider
- May miss underlying dental problems
These can work for mild grinders but aren't suitable for everyone. If you have dental issues or severe bruxism, see a dentist first.
Over-the-Counter Night Guards
Cost: £15–£25
Available from pharmacies like Boots, these "boil and bite" guards mould to your teeth when heated.
Significant Limitations:
"Over-the-counter guards associated with tissue damage and teeth movement" — British Dental Journal
Concerns include:
- Poor fit causing discomfort
- Bulky design disrupts sleep
- Less effective protection
- Can cause jaw problems if fit is wrong
- May present choking hazard
- "Materials tend to wear out quickly"
When OTC guards might be acceptable:
- Temporary solution whilst waiting for custom guard
- Very occasional, mild grinding
- Trial to see if you can tolerate wearing a guard
For anything beyond mild, occasional grinding, invest in a custom-fitted guard.
Botox Treatment for Bruxism
For severe cases unresponsive to night guards, Botox injections into the jaw muscles can reduce grinding.
How It Works
"Injecting small doses of Botox directly into the masseter muscle weakens the muscle enough to stop habitual grinding of teeth and clenching of the jaw." — Dental Artistry UK
The treatment relaxes the powerful jaw muscles, reducing their ability to clench forcefully.
Costs and Availability
Important: Botox for bruxism is not available on the NHS.
"Botox for teeth grinding is usually not offered by the NHS. The NHS considers bruxism Botox to be a form of 'cosmetic botox' and doesn't cover it, even though the service isn't for aesthetic purposes." — Dr Aesthetica
| Treatment | Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Both masseters | £350–£450 | 4-6 months |
| Including temporalis | £450–£600 | 4-6 months |
| Annual cost | £700–£900 | 2 sessions/year |
What to Expect:
- Initial consultation (often free at higher-cost clinics)
- Treatment takes 10-15 minutes
- Results appear within 1-2 weeks
- Effects last 3-6 months
- Requires ongoing treatment
Best Candidates:
- Severe bruxism not controlled by night guards
- TMJ disorder with muscle pain
- Visible muscle hypertrophy from grinding
- Those who can't tolerate wearing night guards
How to Stop Teeth Grinding Naturally
Lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce bruxism, especially when stress is the primary cause.
Stress Management
Since 70% of bruxism cases relate to stress, addressing the root cause is essential.
"See a GP if you need help with some of the causes of teeth grinding, such as stress, anxiety, smoking, drinking too much or taking drugs." — NHS
Effective Strategies:
- Regular exercise: Reduces overall stress levels
- Breathing exercises: Practice before bed
- Meditation or mindfulness: Apps like Headspace or Calm
- Counselling or CBT: Available through your GP
Sleep Hygiene
Better sleep habits can reduce night-time grinding.
NHS Recommendations:
- Go to bed at the same time every night
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine
- Ensure your bedroom is dark and quiet
- Avoid screens for an hour before bed
- Keep your bedroom at a comfortable temperature
Substances to Reduce or Avoid
| Substance | Impact on Bruxism |
|---|---|
| Caffeine | Stimulates jaw muscles, especially if consumed after 2pm |
| Alcohol | Disrupts sleep quality and increases grinding |
| Smoking | Nicotine is a stimulant that can worsen grinding |
| Recreational drugs | Particularly ecstasy and cocaine |
"Avoid drinking alcohol or taking recreational drugs, particularly ecstasy or cocaine, because these substances can make teeth grinding worse" — NHS
Jaw Exercises and Self-Care
Daily Practices:
- Avoid chewing gum (increases jaw muscle activity)
- Don't chew pens, pencils, or fingernails
- Eat softer foods if your jaw is painful
- Apply a warm compress to tense jaw muscles
- Gently massage your jaw muscles before bed
Pain Relief:
- Over-the-counter painkillers (paracetamol or ibuprofen)
- Ice packs for 20-30 minutes to reduce jaw swelling
When to See a Dentist
The NHS recommends seeing a dentist if you experience:
- Tooth damage: Worn, chipped, or sensitive teeth from grinding
- Persistent pain: Ongoing jaw, face, or ear pain
- Sleep disruption: Your or your partner's sleep is affected
- Audible grinding: Your partner hears you grinding at night
"If you're worried about teeth grinding, you should speak to your dentist." — NHS
Your dentist will:
- Examine your teeth for signs of wear
- Check your jaw muscles and joint
- Ask about symptoms and lifestyle factors
- Recommend appropriate treatment
- Fit a custom night guard if needed
Teeth Grinding in Children
Bruxism is common in children, particularly before age 6.
"Teeth grinding is common in children and teenagers, particularly during sleep. It often stops when they reach adulthood and their adult teeth have come through." — NHS
When to seek help for a child:
- Grinding causes visible tooth damage
- Child complains of jaw pain
- Grinding affects sleep quality
- Concerns about dental development
Most children outgrow bruxism naturally, but mention it at their regular dental check-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a night guard cost on the NHS?
In England, an NHS custom night guard costs £326.70 under Band 3 treatment (as of April 2025). Wales charges £260. If you're eligible for free NHS treatment (under 18, pregnant, on qualifying benefits), you pay nothing.
How much does a private night guard cost UK?
Private custom night guards cost £150–£600 depending on the material, complexity, and location. Standard guards typically cost £150–£350, whilst premium options and London clinics charge up to £600.
Can I get a night guard on the NHS?
Yes, if your dentist determines you need one for bruxism, you can get a custom night guard on the NHS. It falls under Band 3 treatment. However, NHS dental availability varies by area, and you may face waiting times.
What's the best night guard for teeth grinding?
A custom-fitted night guard from a dentist (NHS or private) is the most effective option. It provides the best fit, comfort, and protection. Over-the-counter guards are significantly less effective and can cause problems if they don't fit properly.
Is teeth grinding serious?
Untreated bruxism can cause significant problems including worn or cracked teeth, tooth loss, TMJ disorders, chronic jaw pain, and disrupted sleep. Early treatment prevents these complications.
Can stress cause teeth grinding?
Yes, stress and anxiety are the primary cause of bruxism, responsible for approximately 70% of cases according to the NHS. Addressing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, or counselling can significantly reduce grinding.
Does Botox work for teeth grinding?
Yes, Botox can be effective for severe bruxism by relaxing the jaw muscles. Effects last 4-6 months, requiring repeat treatments. It's only available privately in the UK (not on the NHS) and costs £350–£600 per session.
How do I stop grinding my teeth at night?
Start with lifestyle changes: reduce stress, improve sleep habits, limit caffeine and alcohol, and avoid chewing gum. If grinding continues, see your dentist for a custom night guard. For severe cases, Botox treatment may help.
Find a Dentist for Bruxism Treatment
If you're experiencing symptoms of teeth grinding, don't wait for the damage to worsen. Early intervention with a custom night guard can protect your teeth from costly damage and relieve painful symptoms.
Whether you choose NHS or private treatment, a dentist can properly diagnose your condition, identify contributing factors, and recommend the most effective treatment for your situation.
Use our search to find dentists offering night guards and bruxism treatment in your area.
