Are you waking up frequently with pain on one or both sides of your jaw? You may be experiencing a condition called bruxism, where you’re grinding and clenching your teeth. This often happens at night, so you’re not really aware it’s happening. Dr. Gianni Franceschi, a Trinity, FL dentist, discusses teeth grinding and TMJ disorders and what we can do to help.
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is something you do subconsciously. Most of the time, it happens at night so that you have no idea you’re doing it. Severe cases of teeth grinding can lead to damage to your teeth or dental restorations, tension headaches, or it progressing to a TMJ disorder.
Since it normally happens when you sleep, you may not know you’re even grinding your teeth until you go to your Trinity, Florida dentist. However, you may experience symptoms such as:
- Headaches, especially when waking up
- Pain or stiffness in the joints of the jaw
- Headaches and earaches
- Facial pain
- Worn, broken, or chipped teeth
- Newfound tooth sensitivity
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule an appointment at the dentist. Constant grinding of your teeth can lead to more severe symptoms and struggles.
What is a TMJ Disorder?
Bruxism is a condition that can be a cause of TMJ disorder. The more you clench and grind your teeth, the more stress you’re putting on your jaw and facial muscles. This can lead to severe pain in your jaw and face, popping and clicking in the jaw joint, and having difficulty opening and closing your mouth.
Many of the symptoms of TMJ disorder are the same as bruxism. However, TMJ is a more advanced condition. It can impact your teeth and the way your jaw and bite come together. We’ll do multiple tests to evaluate the condition and function of your jaw and what kind of shape it’s in.
Treatment for Bruxism and TMJ Disorder
Dr. Franceschi will do a complete examination of your teeth and jaw. This includes a visual exam, discussing your symptoms with you, and doing diagnostic tests. Then, we can come up with a treatment plan for you.
One of the best treatment options for both conditions is oral appliance therapy. An appliance that’s similar to a sports mouthguard is used to prevent you from grinding your teeth. Some appliances can also reposition your jaw so that it’s in the correct position when you sleep at night.
If you’ve broken or chipped teeth due to bruxism or TMJ disorder, we can also perform restorative dentistry to repair these teeth. Things like dental crowns or dental bonding are able to fix the teeth that you’ve damaged.
TMJ and Bruxism Treatment at Your Trinity, Florida Dentist
Are you suffering from an aching jaw and painful face and head tension? Call us today or schedule an appointment online to get the relief you need.