TMJ & Bruxism
Do you wake up with headaches, neck, or shoulder pain? Are your teeth sensitive? Are they starting to crack or look worn down?
You may have problems with TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder) or bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching).
TMJ disorders affect over ten million Americans and are much more commonly diagnosed in women.These disorders can be painful and, in some cases, may seriously affect your quality of life.
Often, TMJ disorders prevent patients from opening their mouths fully, making dental exams and oral hygiene difficult. Such severe symptoms put your oral health at risk.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
While TMJ symptoms can vary dramatically from person to person, some of them may include:
- Clicking or popping in your jaw joints
- Being unable to open or close your mouth fully
- Your teeth not coming together completely
- Pain in your jaw joints
- Facial, neck, or shoulder pain
- Headaches or migraines
- Grinding and clenching your teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Tinnitus
- Worn or shortened teeth
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
Jaw problems can sometimes be caused by an accident, trauma, or a sports injury. It is also common for symptoms to have no definite cause.
How your teeth come together (your occlusion) can also play a role in TMJ and may cause dysfunction in your jaw joints. Because more women are diagnosed with TMJ disorders, scientists are considering a link between TMJ disorders and female hormones.
How Are TMJ Disorders Treated?
How TMJ is treated depends on the type and severity of your symptoms. Treatment can include splint therapy, surgery, neuromuscular treatments, deprogrammers, or muscle relaxers.
Most cases of TMJ can be treated without surgery, though it may be necessary for severe cases.
Bruxism (Tooth Grinding and Clenching)
Bruxism is excessively clenching or grinding your teeth. While bruxism is very common, symptoms can be severe and include tooth sensitivity, worn teeth, and headaches.
Clenching and grinding occur more commonly while you are sleeping but can also occur during the day. Treatment for bruxism usually involves creating a night guard or splint to protect your teeth from damage.
If you suffer from symptoms of TMJ disorders or bruxism, call our office to schedule an evaluation. We will be able to recommend treatment to keep you comfortable and protect your teeth from damage.
Meet Our Doctor:
Dr. Jena Hauswirth
Dr. Jena Hauswirth is an area native who grew up on a farm near Havelock. She graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in biology before attending dental school at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.
Since being a dental student, Dr. Hauswirth knew she wanted her own practice. She has thoroughly enjoyed preparing and working to make The Dental Loft become a reality.
Staying on the cutting edge of dental technology and techniques is of utmost importance to Dr. Hauswirth. She ensures this by taking continuing ...
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We Offer Photobiomodulation!
Photobiomodulation or PBM, also known as low-level laser therapy or LLLT, is a cutting-edge technology making waves in the field of dentistry. This non-invasive, painless treatment method utilizes low-power lasers or light-emitting diodes to stimulate and accelerate healing processes within the oral cavity, offering numerous benefits for both patients and practitioners.
One of the primary applications of photobiomodulation in dentistry is in the management of pain and inflammation. From post-operative discomfort to the discomfort associated with conditions like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), this therapy can provide relief. It helps reduce swelling, ...