Treating Bruxism and TMJ Disorder
Maintaining your healthy smile sometimes means more than preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Sometimes, it may also involve correcting certain issues with your bite’s alignment and function, such as bruxism (chronic teeth-grinding) or TMJ disorder (a jaw joint dysfunction). Bruxism and TMJ disorder are often closely related, and whether you experience one or both conditions, we can help you alleviate it and restore your bite’s health and proper function. In many cases, the most appropriate solution is a custom-designed oral appliance that can protect your teeth from grinding and/or support your lower jaw more comfortably on its joints.
When teeth-grinding is a problem
Chronic teeth-grinding can result from a variety of different underlying conditions. For example, you may be under heightened levels of stress every day, which causes you to involuntarily clench your jaw closed and press your teeth against each other. Or, if you have a bite imbalance (such as crooked teeth), then bruxism may be a symptom of your jaw and oral structures trying to find a more comfortable position. If you suffer from bruxism, then you won’t be able to stop yourself from grinding your teeth, and ignoring the condition could lead to severe levels of tooth damage, excessive strain on your jaw joints, and more.
The many symptoms of TMJ disorder
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, and describes the two joints situated on both sides of your jaw. Your TMJs allow your jaw to open, close, and move as needed while you bite, chew, and speak. When one or both them aren’t able to function properly, the disorder can result in a number of different symptoms, including:
- Popping and clicking sensations in your jaw
- Pain and soreness in your jaw muscles
- Trouble biting and chewing
- Pain and ringing in your ears
- Chronic bruxism
- And more
Find relief from bruxism and TMJ pain
Chronic teeth-grinding (bruxism) and jaw dysfunction (TMJ disorder) can lead to a wide range of aches, pains, and discomforts. To find out if you can benefit from bruxism or TMJ disorder treatment, schedule a visit by calling us at the Pecan Tree Dental office in Grand Prairie, TX, today at (972) 262-5111. We also proudly serve the residents of Arlington, Cedar Hill, Mansfield, and all surrounding communities.
