Abnormal function of the TMJ can cause all-day discomfort as well as dental complications. Some people do not even realize they’re suffering from TMJ disorders until they begin to note the side effects caused by the condition. These include:
- Headaches
- Muscle pain in the jaws, neck, and shoulders
- Clenching and grinding (bruxism)
- Misaligned teeth
- Broken dental restorations and worn teeth
We can help you prevent TMJ complications as well as eliminate risk factors like bruxism.
Creating a Centric Relationship
By aligning the jaws in a proper relationship, the joint can function naturally. Otherwise, the joint must compromise to accommodate biting or chewing. Over time, this leads to complications like stiffness of the joint, with pain radiating into the rest of the head. Our bite splint method helps position the jaw in a correct location, allowing proper rest to occur. It also guides the jaw so that it will begin functioning properly.
Mouthguards for Bruxism
Chronic bruxism will cause advanced tooth wear, sharp tooth edges, and damage to dental treatments. Most people tend to clench or grind when they are stressed, typically during the night. After a bite analysis, we may suggest that some patients have a mouthguard to wear when they sleep. This guard will prevent the teeth from wearing against one another, as well as reduce the strain to the TMJ.