Bruxism & TMJ Treatment in Glendora, CA
What is Bruxism?
It may sound like something complicated but bruxism is the medical term for grinding your teeth! You may grind, clench, or gnash your teeth while you’re awake or sleeping. It is generally a subconscious action that you’re not even aware you’re doing until you release your jaw and realize you’ve been tensing. It can be caused by stress and anxiety, certain medications like SSRIs, or jaw misalignment. Chronic bruxism can wear down tooth enamel, increase tooth sensitivity, and result in a need for restorative dental procedures like crowns.
TMJ disorders affect the temporomandibular joint in your jaw. This joint connects your jawbone to your skull, and when it’s not functioning properly, it can cause severe pain and discomfort. You may have TMJ disorder if you experience severe jaw pain, headaches, and a popping or clicking sound in the jaw.
Bruxism and TMJ can lead to a lot of unnecessary discomfort and pain, affecting your quality of life and your sleep.
- Jaw Pain: The most common symptom is jaw pain, which can radiate into the face, ear, and mouth
- Difficulty Chewing: Stiffness and tension in the jaw can make it tough for you to chew and sometimes even speak comfortably
- Lock Jaw: Untreated and severe TMJ can lead to the joint locking, immobilizing your jaw
- Wearing Down Your Teeth: Grinding and clenching can begin to wear down the enamel of the teeth and even affect your bite.
How We Treat Them
- Night Guards for Bruxism: Custom-fitted night guards can protect your teeth from the effects of teeth grinding while you sleep.
- Oral Appliances for TMJ: Specialized oral appliances can realign your jaw to ease TMJ symptoms.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises and treatments to strengthen jaw muscles and enhance joint mobility can ease muscle tension and bring relief.
- Stress Management Techniques: Since stress often contributes to these conditions, we encourage patients to practice relaxation techniques and manage stress.
What to Expect
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Dr. Mariam or Dr. Yara will thoroughly assess your condition, using advanced diagnostic tools to understand the root cause of your symptoms.
- Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on our findings, we’ll develop a customized treatment plan focused on relieving symptoms and addressing the underlying causes.
- Ongoing Support and Care: You'll receive continuous support and adjustments as needed to ensure optimal outcomes.
- Preventive Advice: We'll provide tips and strategies for maintaining your oral health and avoiding future issues.
Can bruxism go away on its own?
In some cases, bruxism can lessen without treatment. However, ongoing symptoms require professional intervention to prevent long-term damage.
Is TMJ surgery necessary?
Surgery is typically considered a last resort for TMJ disorders. Most patients find relief with non-surgical treatments such as oral appliances, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
How long does it take to see improvements?
Improvements can vary based on the severity of your condition and the treatment approach. Some patients notice relief soon after beginning treatment, while others may require more time to achieve optimal results.
Find Relief With bruxism & TMJ Treatment in Glendora, CA
Call (626) 963-3322 and schedule a consultation at our Glendora dental office.
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