TMJ & Bruxism – Clinching & Grinding Treatment in Spring, TX
Bruxism is an oral parafunctional activity which commonly occurs with most people at some point in their lives. The two main characteristics of this condition are grinding and or clenching teeth. These actions usually occur during a person’s sleeping hours, but occasionally they occur during the day.
Bruxism is one of the most commonly known sleep disorders. The most common symptoms are earaches and headaches, depression, eating disorders, anxiety, and chronic stress.
An occlusal device usually referred to as a ”night guard” is fabricated with a very delicate process to evaluate your jaw muscles and the bite in the most appropriate position. The device helps in relaxing the muscles of mastication and eventually stops the grinding and the clenching.
Without treatment Bruxism leads to several conditions including:
- Gum Recession
- Myofacial pain (Facial muscle tightness )
- Headaches
- Occlusal (bite)Trauma – The abnormal wear patterns on the occlusal (chewing) surfaces of the teeth can lead to fractures
- Tooth wear near the gum line
- Arthritis – In the most severe cases, in the temporomandibular (TMJ)
Treatment Options:
Though there is no one cure for bruxism, there are a variety of devices and services available from our office to help treat bruxism.
Mouthguard or NightGuard – An acrylic mouthguard can be designed from teeth impressions to minimize the abrasive grinding action during normal sleep.