Clenching, Grinding and TMJ

The temporomandibular joint or TMJ is the jaw joint. It acts like a sliding hinge, connecting your jawbone to your skull. You have one joint on each side of your jaw.

Pain in the jaw and noticeable limitations in jaw movements can be a sign of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD).

One or both joints may be affected. Clenching or grinding your teeth, tightening your jaw muscles, and stressing your TMJ can all potentially lead to TMJ disorders.

More than 90% of TMD is due to muscular problems, which can cause headaches and other types of pain in the jaw area. TMD can also be a result of having a damaged jaw joint due to injury or disease. Whatever the cause, the results may include a misaligned bite, pain, clicking noises when you open your mouth, or difficulty in opening your mouth wide.

A simple and effective way of treating TMD is by using a custom nightguard. The nightguard reduces the pressure that is exerted between your upper and lower teeth when biting. A nightguard is custom fitted to ensure that your bite is correctly aligned to further reduce any discomfort or pain.

Surgery is typically a last resort after conservative measures have failed, but some people with TMJ disorders may benefit from surgical treatments. We collaborate with TMJ specialists when needed for such surgeries.

Speak to the team at FLOSS Dental Clinic if you are experiencing any TMD-related symptoms, and see if a custom-fitted nightguard would be appropriate for you.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)

Temporomandibular disorders are marked by jaw pain, tooth wear, earaches, headaches, and locking or clicking of the jaw. Bruxism and TMJ problems can be quite draining due to the lack of sleep, discomfort, and painful side effects that often accompany them.

Splint therapy is a dentist-recommended treatment for this painful disorder of the masticatory system. The Michigan Splint is a night guard that treats temporomandibular joint disorders.