Assessment for Chronic Teeth Grinding

Do you grind your teeth frequently or wake up with a sore or tense jaw? Patients suffering from chronic teeth grinding and temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) may develop a number of uncomfortable symptoms, which include but are not limited to alignment issues, worn-down structures, increased risk of cracked teeth, and development of a jaw dysfunction known as TMJ Disorder. If you constantly grind your teeth or experience chronic discomfort in your jaw and facial muscles, you should speak to your dentist about a bruxism/TMJ assessment as soon as possible.

Managing Bruxism and TMJ Disorder

Bruxism–also known as chronic teeth grinding–typically occurs at night when a person is asleep and consists of clenching the teeth tightly together and moving the jaw so the teeth grind against one another. When left unmanaged, it can result in a dangerous jaw dysfunction known as TMJ disorder. Bruxism is only one of the several causes of TMJ disorder, which occurs when the jaw joints become misaligned. Patients affected may experience a painful popping or clicking sensation in the jaw, the inability to properly open the mouth, and more.

The treatment we recommend will depend on the cause and severity of the disorder. We will examine your jaw carefully and may take digital x-rays and impressions. We may then recommend a restoration, orthodontics to address misalignment, or possibly an oral appliance to reduce strain on the jaw joints. Additionally, lifestyle changes you can make to ease symptoms might include:

• Sleeping on your back to ease pressure on the joints
• Applying heat to the jaw daily using an infrared lamp, heat pad, or warm, moist towel
• Adding more soft foods to your diet and avoid hard/chewy foods
• Limiting the intake of caffeine

If you have questions or would like to schedule your bruxism assessment, call Allen Family Dental at 469-342-6644 today.