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TMJ (Teeth Grinding)

What Is TMJ Syndrome?

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect the lower jaw to the temporal bone in the skull. Facial muscles connected to the TMJ enable you to open and close your mouth and control chewing.

When problems occur with this joint, your dentist may diagnose TMJ syndrome. The symptoms of TMJ syndrome include:

  • Pain in your jaw, head and/or neck
  • Difficulty opening or moving your jaw
  • “Popping” sounds when biting
  • Sensitive teeth

What Causes TMJ Syndrome?

A common cause of TMJ syndrome is teeth grinding (bruxism) or teeth clenching. These actions often occur at night while sleeping, but you may even be unconsciously grinding your teeth at times during the day. Some of the symptoms of teeth grinding include:

  • Sore, tired jaw
  • Difficulty opening and closing your jaw
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Earaches
  • Pain in the jaw joint (TMJ)

When you grind your teeth, you tense up the temporalis muscles located on the sides of your head – with up to 10-20 times more force than normal chewing! This places an enormous amount of pressure on your teeth, joints, and muscles, and it can cause headaches as well as TMJ syndrome.

Stress is often the trigger for teeth grinding, but other causes include:

  • Spaces between teeth
  • Worn teeth
  • Teeth out of alignment
  • Many other unknown factors

Regular dental checkups can help your dentist to diagnose this condition and develop an effective treatment plan for you. If left untreated, teeth grinding can lead to widespread damage, such as:

  • Flattened, worn down teeth
  • Teeth chipped at the gum line
  • Loose teeth
  • Damage to the bone that supports the teeth
  • Damage to the jaw joint (TMJ)
  • Broken teeth
  • Sensitive teeth

What is the Treatment for TMJ and Teeth Grinding?

If Dr. Fairweather determines that you are grinding your teeth, he may recommend one or more of these treatments for you:

  • A nightguard is a plastic device that fits over the top or bottom teeth to prevent the back teeth from touching each other. Usually, a nightguard is worn during sleep, when most teeth grinding occurs, but it can be worn at other times if needed. There are different types of nightguards available, including the NTI-tss® device which fits over your top two front teeth and can be custom-made in our office. Dr. Fairweather will recommend the best nightguard for your condition.
  • Medications may be prescribed to temporarily reduce stress, soreness, or discomfort.
  • Restorations (e.g., crowns, bridges, etc.) can be used to repair the damage caused by teeth grinding and restore the function and appearance of your teeth.

What is the Best Option for Me?

Because every patient is unique, Dr. Fairweather and his professional staff will evaluate your specific dental condition to determine whether treatment for TMJ syndrome or teeth grinding is right for you. Please contact us to schedule a consultation at our office in Bridgewater, NJ.