Do you often grind your teeth? Do you awake in the morning with a sore jaw or unexplained headaches? If so, you may be suffering from a condition known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
TMJ disorder can sometimes occur if the jaw joints do not properly align with one another. As a result, the process of biting becomes more challenging. This places stress upon the surrounding bones, ligaments and muscles. This is also the reason why those who regularly grind their teeth (bruxism) will often exhibit physical signs of damage (such as worn enamel or chips).
It is likewise important to point out that stress can also play a role on occasion. Some individuals inadvertently grind their teeth, possibly exacerbating the symptoms of TMJ disorder. The issue here is that this often occurs during the overnight hours. However, you will be pleased to learn that dentists have developed a handful of effective treatment options. Let’s take a look at your choices as well as what each entails.
How Will Professionals Treat TMJ Disorder?
One approach will involve the use of a customised mouthguard. It is moulded around the unique dimensions of your mouth and it will be worn during the overnight hours. The main intention of this device is to prevent your upper and lower teeth from grinding against one another.
You might also be fitted with a series of splints. These splints will normally fit over either your top or bottom set of teeth. Their purpose is to slowly guide your jaw into a more natural position, helping to reduce discomfort while lessening the chances that grinding will occur.
This condition can also be related to psychological stress Everyone reacts to stress differently. Some individuals unconsciously grind their teeth against one another (this is known as bruxism within the dental community).
While mouthguards and splints may help, it is just as important to recognise the symptoms of stress so that you can discover healthier coping mechanisms (such as meditating, exercise or performing a fun activity).
The bottom line is that TMJ disorder can cause significant damage to your teeth and mouth if remains unchecked. it is therefore crucial to speak with your dentist if you suspect that you may be suffering from this condition.
