Treatments for Teeth Grinding and TMJ Dysfunction

Bruxism is the subconscious grinding, clenching or gnashing of teeth. This often happens during sleep, but it can also be a response to anger, anxiety, concentration, or other causes. Many people with bruxism don’t know they have it until they’re told by someone else, or until they visit their dentist.

If left untreated, bruxism may eventually lead to problems such as:

• Excessive tooth wear or damage
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Damage to fillings, veneers and other dental restorations
• Headaches or pain in the jaw, neck or shoulders
• Permanent damage to temporomandibular joints

Sometimes a related problem to bruxism, temporomandibular joint dysfunction is a condition affecting the jaw’s temporomandibular joints (TMJ). These are the two joints on the sides of the head that are responsible for opening, closing and moving the jaw. If the joints are damaged or put under strain, this can lead to problems such as:

• Tightness or difficulty moving your jaw
• ‘Clicking’ or ‘popping’ sounds when you chew
• Pain in the jaw or the sides of the head
• Associated headaches or pain in the ears, cheeks or temples

If you think you might have bruxism or TMJ dysfunction, our dentists will examine your mouth and jaw and ask about your symptoms to determine the cause and severity of the condition. They will then be able to recommend suitable treatments, which may involve:

• Lifestyle changes: Depending on the cause of bruxism or TMJ dysfunction, we may recommend steps such as trying to avoid stress, not overusing your jaw, practising jaw relaxation exercises and hypnotherapy.
  
  
• Occlusal splint: Wearing a device known as an occlusal splint or night guard while you sleep to lessen the effect on your teeth from grinding or clenching together, and relieve strain on your teeth and jaws.
  
  
• Orthodontics: If an uneven bite is causing you to grind or putting strain on your jaw, we may recommend orthodontic treatment using braces or clear aligners.
  
  
• Dental treatments: Treatments to restore worn or damaged teeth could relieve bruxism and TMJ problems, or may be recommended to repair teeth after successful treatment.
  
  
• Injections: Our dentists are qualified and experienced in the use of injectables to help relieve pain associated with TMJ dysfunction. This is a temporary measure that typically lasts up to 6 months.

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If you have any of these issues, Please call us for help to resolve them for you 02 9412 3805