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Temporomandibular Joint Disorder or TMD (sometimes called TMJ) can be a painful and uncomfortable condition. At Banyule dental we offer a range of treatment for TMD and Bruxism, speak to our friendly team to learn more!
What Is TMD?
What Is Bruxism?
What Happens If TMD or Bruxism Are Not Treated?
How Are TMD and Bruxism Treated?
What Is TMD?
TMD is a disorder that affects the temporomandibular joints.
These are the joints that move your lower jaw and TMD can occur if they are misaligned.
TMD may be a symptom of bruxism, or can cause bruxism to develop.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the medical term for tooth grinding or clenching. This action is usually sub-conscious and often occurs during sleep.
In many case people are unaware they grind or clench, until they begin to suffer additional symptoms which can include:
- Tooth sensitivity due to the tooth enamel becoming worn away
- Teeth that appear slightly shorter due to becoming worn down
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Waking up with toothache or a sore jaw
What Happens If TMD or Bruxism Are Not Treated?
It is extremely important to get a proper diagnosis from a dentist so these conditions can be treated. If they are not then you are at risk of damaging your teeth, gums and jaw joints.
This could ultimately lead to tooth loss and can result in a number of very painful symptoms. Untreated bruxism and TMD can result in persistent headaches, and this pain can spread to the neck and shoulders and may even cause earache.
How Are TMD and Bruxism Treated?
We can assess the damage already caused by these conditions, before recommending suitable treatment. This may as straightforward as a custom-made mouthguard or splint.
This is worn overnight and prevents the teeth from coming into contact, preventing further damage to the teeth and gums and reducing pressure on your jaw joints.
Bruxism may be related to stress, so it could help to reduce your stress levels if possible. This treatment is often sufficient, but more severe cases of TMD may require surgery.
This is quite rare and is only used after alternative options have been tried.