Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

This guide covers what DVA looks for when assessing this condition, including the relevant Statement of Principles factors, the evidence you should gather, and common preparation tips. Expand each section for more detail.

You are reviewing the condition-specific guidance to understand what evidence and preparation DVA expects.

PhysicalVETS Act 2026

Also known as: Teeth GrindingBruxism is the involuntary grinding, clenching, or gnashing of teeth, often during sleep. In veterans it is commonly linked to PTSD, anxiety, and stress from service. It can cause significant dental damage, jaw pain, and headaches.

DVA uses Statements of Principles () from the Repatriation Medical Authority to determine whether a condition can be linked to service. For Teeth Grinding, DVA generally considers the following factors:

Having a psychiatric condition that is linked to service (PTSD, anxiety, depression) that contributes to bruxism
Using a medication for a service-related condition that can cause bruxism (some SSRIs are associated with bruxism)
Experiencing a traumatic brain injury during service
Being unable to obtain a SoP factor — bruxism can also be claimed if a clinical opinion supports the service link through an alternative pathway

Reference: SoP No. 27 of 2019 (Reasonable Hypothesis) / SoP No. 28 of 2019 (Balance of Probabilities). RH applies to operational/warlike service; BoP applies to peacetime service. Verify at rma.gov.au.Source: rma.gov.au — verify this directly with DVA for your circumstances.

DVA uses two different standards of proof depending on your type of service. Understanding which applies to you can help you prepare your evidence.

Reasonable Hypothesis (RH)Applies to: operational, warlike, or non-warlike serviceUnder the Reasonable Hypothesis standard (operational/warlike/non-warlike service), DVA generally considers that having a service-related psychiatric condition (PTSD, anxiety) that contributes to bruxism, or taking medication that causes bruxism — with clinical onset within a relevant period — is sufficient to raise a reasonable hypothesis.

Balance of Probabilities (BoP)Applies to: peacetime serviceUnder the Balance of Probabilities standard (peacetime service), DVA generally considers that the veteran must show it is more likely than not that bruxism was caused or materially contributed to by a service-related condition or its treatment.

In plain EnglishBruxism is most commonly claimed as a secondary condition. The standard of proof for the secondary link follows the standard applicable to your primary condition. SoP instruments are updated periodically by the RMA. Always verify the current instrument at rma.gov.au/sops.

Benefit of the doubt: DVA is legally required to give you the benefit of the doubt if evidence is evenly balanced (s119 , s335 ). Learn more

DVA generally considers the standard of proof based on your service type. Verify this directly with DVA or a qualified advocate.

Required

Diagnosis from a dentist or dental specialistA diagnosis of bruxism from your dentist, showing evidence of teeth grinding (wear patterns, dental damage).How to get it: See your dentist for an assessment. Ask them to document evidence of grinding and its effects on your teeth.Estimated time: 1-3 weeks

DVA acceptance letter for primary mental health conditionIf claiming as secondary to PTSD, anxiety, or depression.How to get it: Use your existing DVA acceptance letter.Estimated time: N/A

Medical nexus report linking bruxism to service-related conditionA report from your treating doctor or dentist explaining how your bruxism is related to your mental health condition or its treatment.How to get it: Ask your dentist or psychiatrist to provide this opinion in writing.Estimated time: 2-4 weeks

Bruxism is frequently claimed as secondary to PTSD or anxiety — consider discussing with DVA or an advocate how these conditions may relate
Dental evidence of grinding (worn teeth, cracked teeth, jaw pain) may help support your claim
A sleep study can sometimes document bruxism if your dentist recommends one
Some SSRI medications are associated with bruxism — mention this if applicable

Medical nexus statement (from your doctor)

A medical or dental opinion linking your bruxism to a service-related condition.

What to ask your doctor

I am making a DVA claim for bruxism secondary to my accepted PTSD. My dentist has documented significant tooth wear. Could you write a report?

Personal statement (your own words)

Describe when grinding started, its relationship to your mental health, and the resulting damage.

Suggested structure

When you first noticed teeth grinding or when someone told you about it
The connection to your mental health condition — does it worsen during periods of stress or poor mental health?
Dental damage that has resulted
Impact on sleep, jaw pain, headaches

Common mistakes to avoid

✗Not connecting bruxism to the primary mental health condition

Treatments DVA may cover

Night guards and dental splints covered by DVA
Dental repair and restoration for grinding damage
Dental specialist consultations
Physiotherapy for jaw (TMJ) problems

Next steps to consider

Get fitted for a night guard to prevent further damage
Continue managing the primary mental health condition
Consider Permanent Impairment if there is significant permanent dental damage

Actual entitlements depend on individual DVA assessment. This is indicative only.

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Official + GuidanceVerified March 2026

This page combines official DVA information with platform-authored guidance. Official sources are cited where applicable.

SoP factors sourced from RMA. Guidance text explains official processes in plain language.

RMA — Statements of Principles

This is a guide onlyThis information is a free guide. It is not legal advice, medical advice, or financial advice. Always verify with DVA directly or with a qualified advocate before lodging a claim.

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Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

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