TMJ - Bruxism/Clenching

Musculoskeletal Signs and Symptoms

Do you suffer from any of these?

  • Headaches
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  • Clenching or grinding
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  • Jaw Joint Pain
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  • Facial Pain
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  • Jaw Joint Noise or Clicking
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  • Sensitive Teeth
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  • Limited Mouth Opening
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  • Chewing Difficulties
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  • Ear Congestion
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  • Neck Pain
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  • Dizziness
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  • Posural Problems
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  • Ringing in the Ears
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  • Tingling of the Fingertips
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  • Loose Teeth
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  • Nervousness or Insomnia
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  • Difficulty Swallowing
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  • Hot & Cold Sensitivity of the Teeth
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    $25 Discount for New Patients!

    What is TMJ?
    TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint, or the jaw joint. You have two TMJ’s, one in front of each ear, that connect the lower jaw bone (the mandible) to the skull. These joints allow all the mobility required for biting, chewing and swallowing food, for speaking and making facial expressions. Disorders of the TMJ are also known by other names such as Myofacial Pain Disorder (MPD), Craniomandibular Disorder (CMD) and Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD). It is estimated that this disorder afflicts well over 40 million Americans.

    TMJ How is TMJ Treated?
    Depending on their causes, some common jaw joint and muscle problems last only for weeks or months. In these situations, simple care may be the only requirement to relieve discomfort. We recommend that patients eat a soft food diet, apply ice or moist heat, avoid extreme jaw movements (wide yawning, loud singing, and gum chewing), use massage and do simple stretching exercises to help ease their symptoms.

    It is important to note that if your TMJ symptoms persist or are more complex, there may be a more serious condition or problem (such as arthritis), and further investigation is required. We will be able to determine if you have TMJ or a different condition by performing a simple series of tests, as both practice Neuromuscular Dentistry.

    What is Bruxism/Clenching?
    Often, but not always associated with TMJ disorders, clenching/ bruxing or "squeezing together/grinding together" of the teeth are destructive oral habits that can tire the jaw and neck muscles and cause them to go into spasm. Many patients complain that these symptoms occur primarily during sleep. Frequently, premature wearing away/loosening of the teeth occurs, that may eventually result in a TMJ Disorder. With the aid of computerized Medical Technology, we provide patients with comfortable custom fitted night orthotic appliances (night guards) to relieve patients symptoms and protect jaw joints, muscles, and teeth from further destruction and deterioration. See Neuromuscular Dentistry.