The Ins and Outs of Bruxism and TMJ

Carroll Dental Care is dedicated to providing our patients dental care that addresses all areas of concern in the mouth. This means we are ready and able to provide informed, skilled treatment for issues that might not have to do directly with your teeth.

Many patients suffer from things like teeth grinding and pain in the jaw joint. Such painful experiences can ultimately be detrimental to your overall oral health.

We treat patients for bruxism and TMJ issues at our office. Trust our skilled team to be able to provide you with treatment that addresses the problem.

What Is Bruxism and How Do I Know I Have It?

Bruxism is the excessive grinding of the teeth or clenching of the jaw. It can affect patients of all ages, and most often manifests at night when patients are asleep. Some may not experience symptoms, but if you are dealing with any of the following symptoms consistently, bruxism might be the cause:

  • Jaw pain.
  • Tooth pain.
  • Headache.
  • Other dental problems.

How Carrol Dental Care Treats Bruxism

It’s not uncommon for children with bruxism to grow out of the tendency to clench or grind. Many adult patients, on the other hand, need treatment.

Treatment for both is most commonly a night guard that protects your teeth from grinding against one another. We will create a night guard mouthpiece designed specifically around your teeth to better protect them from the detrimental effects of bruxism.

What Is TMJ and How Do I Know I Have It?

TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorder is more common in adults than children. It is classified as pain in or around the jaw joint. You may be dealing with TMJ if you’ve been experiencing the following symptoms:

  • Jaw pain.
  • Clicking of the jaw joint.
  • Headaches.
  • Joint locking.
  • Spasms in the jaw.
  • Tenderness in the jaw joint.

How Carrol Dental Care Treats TMJ

Dental splints and mouthguards are common options for treating TMJ. A lot of TMJ pain comes from bruxism. If the jaw can be positioned comfortably while you sleep, stopping you from clenching or grinding unconsciously, then your jaw joint can rest and recuperate.

Get Treated for Bruxism/TMJ at Carroll Dental Care Today

Get in touch with us today to learn more about bruxism or TMJ. We’re here to help. Our treatment options can truly make a difference for your oral health and your smile.