Understanding TMJ Disorder
Your temporomandibular joint (or TMJ) is the scientific name for the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. A number of factors, including teeth grinding, can cause a TMJ disorder (TMD).
An aching jaw
Difficulty or pain while chewing
Locking of your joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth
A clicking sound or grating sensation when you open your mouth
Jaw pain and tenderness
Annoying popping when opening and closing your mouth
Teeth grinding that can damage your tooth enamel
Unexplained headaches
Help Your Jaw Feel Better with TMJ Treatment
While chronic teeth grinding can cause headaches or even jaw problems like TMJ disorder, it can also damage your teeth. When our doctors examine you, they’ll look for signs of bruxism – the medical term for teeth grinding or clenching.
If it turns out that you do suffer from bruxism, we can relieve your pain and save your teeth by providing you with a custom-made mouthguard which you’ll wear at night. The mouthguard will gently reposition your lower jaw to relieve pressure on your TMJ and prevent you from grinding or clenching your teeth. It should also help to eliminate TMJ-related headaches and migraines.
