TMJ and Bruxism
Patients who wake up with headaches, neck, or shoulder pain, or who are suffering from teeth sensitivity or teeth that are cracking or worn down, might have problems with TMJ. TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder) and bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) affect millions. These disorders can be painful, and in some cases, may seriously affect quality of life.
Some TMJ disorders prevent patients from opening their mouths fully, making dental exams and oral hygiene difficult. Such severe symptoms put oral health at risk.
Signs of TMJ Disorders
Although the signs of TMJ can vary dramatically from person to person, some of them may include:
- Clicking or popping in the jaw joints
- Being unable to open or close the mouth fully
- Teeth not coming together completely
- Pain in the jaw joints
- Facial, neck, or shoulder pain
- Headaches or migraines
- Grinding and clenching the teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Worn or shortened teeth
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
Jaw problems can sometimes be caused by an accident, trauma, or a sports injury. It is, however, just as common for the disorder to have no definite cause.
How the teeth come together (occlusion or “bite”) can play a role in TMJ and may cause dysfunction in the jaw joints.
How Are TMJ Disorders Treated?
TMJ is treated differently, depending on the type and severity of symptoms. Treatment can include:
- Splint therapy
- Surgery
- Neuromuscular treatments
- Deprogrammers
- Muscle relaxers
Most cases of TMJ can be treated without surgery, although it might be required for severe cases.
Bruxism (Tooth Grinding and Clenching)
Bruxism refers to excessive clenching or grinding of the teeth. Although bruxism is quite common, symptoms can be severe and include tooth sensitivity, worn teeth, and headaches.
Clenching and grinding occur more commonly while patients are sleeping but can also occur during the day. Treatment for bruxism usually involves creating a nightguard or splint to protect the teeth from damage.
If you experience any of the warning signs of a TMJ disorder or bruxism, call our practice to arrange an evaluation. We will be able to recommend treatment to keep you comfortable and protect your teeth from damage.
If you experience the warning signs of a TMJ disorder or bruxism, call our clinic to arrange an evaluation. We will be able to recommend treatment to keep you comfortable and protect your teeth from damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
While teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is very common among adults, it can cause serious damage to your teeth and jaw joints. If you wake up with sore muscles or you have noticed that you clench or grind your teeth, we can make a night guard to help protect your teeth.
Meet Our Doctor:
Dr. Georgina Patsiouras
Georgina is a general dentist who graduated with honours from the University of Melbourne. After working in Community Dental Health as part of her internship year, she has been working in private practice for most of her career. In 2008 she bought this existing practice in Brighton and has enjoyed bringing her gentle style of dentistry to the area. She is a caring and gentle dentist who is committed to providing a high standard of care to all patients.
Outside of dentistry she enjoys travelling and spending time with her family and friends.