TMD/Bruxism Night Guards Edmonton
Bruxism is a condition in which you grind or clench your teeth. This may occur unconsciously during the day or at night while sleeping. Mild bruxism may not require treatment, but frequent or severe teeth grinding can lead to jaw disorders, headaches, damaged teeth, and other complications.
Signs and Symptoms of Bruxism
- Loud teeth grinding or clenching, sometimes waking your sleep partner
- Flattened, fractured, chipped, or loose teeth
- Worn tooth enamel exposing deeper layers of your teeth
- Increased tooth pain or sensitivity
- Damage to the inside of your cheeks from chewing
- Pain or soreness in the jaw, neck, or face
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult your dentist. Regular checkups can help identify bruxism early, and your dentist may recommend a custom mouthguard to prevent further damage to your teeth.
TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) is a condition affecting the joints connecting your upper and lower jaw, which can make jaw movement difficult or painful. Symptoms of TMD include:
- Pain or tenderness in or around the ears, jaw, face, or temples
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
- Clicking, popping, crunching, or grinding noises while chewing, yawning, or opening the mouth
- Associated neck pain or headaches
TMD can result from multiple factors such as jaw injuries, joint diseases like arthritis, bruxism, muscle tension in the head or neck, and stress. These factors can worsen TMD symptoms if left unaddressed.
How Your Dentist Can Help with TMD
Your dentist will perform a comprehensive dental and medical evaluation, possibly including panoramic X-rays to assess the jaw joints, occlusion, and surrounding structures. Muscle and tissue assessments in the head and neck may be conducted to check for inflammation. Your dentist may also recommend exercises, movements, or a referral to an oral and maxillofacial specialist for further evaluation and diagnosis.
