TMJ and Teeth Grinding Solutions in Moorestown
Jaw pain, headaches, or worn teeth may be signs of a TMJ disorder or teeth grinding. At Moorestown Dental Professionals, we help patients identify the cause of their discomfort and find personalized solutions to protect their teeth and reduce strain on the jaw.
What Are the Signs of TMJ and Teeth Grinding?
The temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, connect your lower jaw to your skull and help you speak, chew, and yawn. When these joints or the surrounding muscles become irritated, you may experience:
- Jaw pain, stiffness, or soreness
- Clicking or popping when opening your mouth
- Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth comfortably
- Frequent headaches, ear pressure, or facial pain
- Tightness in the neck or shoulders
Teeth grinding and clenching, also known as bruxism, often occur during sleep. Signs may include:
- Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Tight or tired jaw muscles
- Morning headaches
- Damage to fillings, crowns, or other dental work
Oftentimes, an incorrect bite is the cause of toothaches, jaw soreness, headaches, migraines, neck pain, and TMJ dysfunction. Misalignment and crowding of the teeth are best treated with braces or other orthodontic treatment. However, orthodontic treatment may not be a feasible option for every patient for a variety of reasons.
What Personalized Treatment Options Are Available at Moorestown?
During your visit, our dental team will examine your teeth, bite, jaw joints, and surrounding muscles. Treatment recommendations will depend on your symptoms and what may be causing them.
A great alternative for easing the symptoms of a nonideal bite is a custom-fitted occlusal guard, also called a nightguard. When made correctly, it can greatly reduce TMJ pain, headaches, bruxism, grinding, and related tooth wear.
Dr. Esmail has designed his own version of a nightguard that is comfortable, effective, and long-lasting. Unlike over-the-counter guards or the bulky, horseshoe-shaped appliances traditionally used to treat bruxism, Dr. Esmail's custom nightguard is created specifically for the patient's teeth and bite.
In addition to protecting the teeth and reducing pressure on the jaw, the appliance may help reduce snoring and may be an acceptable alternative to CPAP for some patients with mild sleep apnea. Patients experiencing snoring or other symptoms of sleep apnea should receive an appropriate medical evaluation to determine whether an oral appliance is suitable for them.
At-home steps - such as avoiding gum, temporarily choosing softer foods, applying warm compresses, and becoming more aware of daytime clenching - may provide additional relief.
Ready to Schedule a TMJ and Teeth Grinding Evaluation?
If you regularly experience jaw discomfort, headaches, or signs of tooth wear, an evaluation can help determine the next step. Contact Moorestown Dental Professionals to learn more about TMJ and teeth grinding solutions in Moorestown, NJ.
