781-263-9900
298 Washington Street, Wellesley Hills, MA, 02481
TMJ Therapy & Bruxism Relief
Do you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth? Do you ever experience any jaw pain or aches?
Let us help you!
Let us help you!
What is Bruxism?
Do you often wake up with a dull headache or a sore jaw? Do you some-times find yourself clenching your teeth? Until you experience pain or have a dental checkup, you may not realize that you have a condition called bruxism, a habit of grinding or clenching the teeth. Many people are afflicted with bruxism. Some people may do this unconsciously during the day, but it is a larger problem at night while you are asleep. Grinding your teeth can damage enamel, wear down teeth, cause jaw pain, or irritate your gums. The noise from teeth grinding can also disturb your partner's sleep if loud enough. If you grind your teeth you should consider a night guard.
What is TMJ Disorder?
Bruxism is often related to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ or TMD). Temporomandibular joint disorder is a painful condition that occurs when the jaw joint is misaligned. The temporomandibular joint is a sliding joint that connects the skull to the jawbone. Dysfunction can lead to pain and discomfort including jaw pain or soreness, chewing difficulties, headaches, and locking or clicking of the jaw.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder:
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder:
- Sore cheeks and jaw
- Headaches/migraines
- Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
- Facial swelling
- Neck aches
- Ear aches
How We Treat Bruxism and TMJ
We offer a variety of treatment options which vary depending on the patient and severity of discomfort being experienced. Whether it be through night guards, therapy, or botox, Wellesley Family Dental is committed to designing the best, most comfortable treatment plan for you.
Night Guards
One of the most popular solutions to bruxism and TMJ relief is the night guard. The night guard, which is very similar to a mouth guard worn by athletes, provides a barrier between your top and bottom teeth while you sleep. All night guards are custom fitted for comfort and to allow for proper breathing. Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and have the night guard created by a dental lab. Night guards are very durable and can be used for up to 10 years.
Physical Therapy
There are also some things that you can do to try to stop teeth grinding. You can train your jaw to be free and easy rather than clenched. Refrain from chewing gum or on other objects like pens. You should also avoid alcoholic drinks and drinks with caffeine, as these can increase the likelihood you will grind your teeth. TMJ relief exercises are also recommended to reduce swelling, pain, and tightness.
Botox
Botox serves as a natural muscle relaxant making a great option to release muscle tension in the jaw and face as well as reduce pain triggered by bruxism. TMJ disorder, or other dental disorders. Click here to learn more about botox.
Night Guards
One of the most popular solutions to bruxism and TMJ relief is the night guard. The night guard, which is very similar to a mouth guard worn by athletes, provides a barrier between your top and bottom teeth while you sleep. All night guards are custom fitted for comfort and to allow for proper breathing. Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and have the night guard created by a dental lab. Night guards are very durable and can be used for up to 10 years.
Physical Therapy
There are also some things that you can do to try to stop teeth grinding. You can train your jaw to be free and easy rather than clenched. Refrain from chewing gum or on other objects like pens. You should also avoid alcoholic drinks and drinks with caffeine, as these can increase the likelihood you will grind your teeth. TMJ relief exercises are also recommended to reduce swelling, pain, and tightness.
Botox
Botox serves as a natural muscle relaxant making a great option to release muscle tension in the jaw and face as well as reduce pain triggered by bruxism. TMJ disorder, or other dental disorders. Click here to learn more about botox.
Whether it be through night guards, therapy, or botox, Wellesley Family Dental is committed to designing the best, most comfortable treatment plan for you. We invite you to call us today at 781-263-9900.