Lafayette, Colorado

TMJ and Bruxism

 

Studies have shown a link between tooth grinding and headaches.  For people who grind or clench, the muscles that open and close the jaw can become painful from over use. This causes a range of symptoms from tension to migraine headaches.  Fortunately, headache sufferers may now find relief with the use of night time bite splint (night guard).

Dentistry has traditionally focused on the premature tooth wear caused by grinding and clenching.  These “grinders” can develop sensitivity to temperature and certain foods, and their teeth become more prone to fractures.  For most people, this wear will not be visually evident until later in life when many end up needing dental work to restore teeth to their original function.

The American Dental Association estimates that 95% of the American population suffers from a grinding or clenching condition at some point in their lives.

 

Many people suffer from at least one of the following:

• Headaches and neck aches

• Tenderness in the jaw muscles

• Clicking, locking, or popping of the jaw

• Pain or discomfort around the ears and when you are yawning or chewing

• Jaw clenching or teeth grinding, severe or very loud

• Fracturing of teeth especially on the front teeth because of high pressure

• Teeth sensitive to cold, pressure and other stimuli

• Ringing in the ears

• Jaw muscle spasms or cramping

 

TREATMENT

• Controlling bad habits: chewing on ice, finger nails and pens.

• Chewing gum increases wear and tear on the joints giving little time for the jaw to relax between meals.

• Chewing on both sides of your mouth.

• Eating more of a soft diet by avoiding hard, chewy or sticky foods.

• Relaxation and stress management techniques.

• NIGHT GUARD:  This appliance takes the punishment of your teeth during bruxism (clenching/grinding). A night guard is made of very hard material and is shaped like a retainer.  This splint is wear between the top and bottom teeth for an ideal bite relationship.  The night guard absorbs the force of clenching and grinding to reduce joint irritation and inflammation.  It also protects your teeth from premature enamel wear and unnecessary tooth fracturing.