Causes and Treatments of Bruxism aka TMJ
If you have been experiencing headaches, neck pain and/or jaw pain, you may be clenching or grinding your teeth. Bruxism, or Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Syndrome, is a condition that stems from severe clenching or grinding your teeth, and if left untreated, can do some major damage. While we all have times of stress and anxiety, if grinding becomes chronic then your teeth can fracture and break, and it’s possible for the muscles in your jaw to weaken and break down from the immense pressure.
Bruxism May Result From Anxiety, Stress.
KOAT-TV Albuquerque, NM (1/23) reports bruxism can damage teeth and put “pressure on the muscles and tissues” around the jaw. The article advises seeing a dentist to discuss possible solutions, which may include using a mouth guard at night to protect teeth. KOAT also recommends reducing alcohol and caffeine consumption.
A study in the November 2016 issue of The Journal of the American Dental Association suggests that teeth grinding is associated with alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco use.
MouthHealthy.org provides additional information on bruxism and TMJ.
Don’t Let TMJ Go Untreated
The effects from untreated bruxism, such as chips, fractures, enamel erosion and inflammation, can increase your risk for tooth loss over time. You don’t have to live with jaw tightness and tension. These symptoms often point to a larger problem that can easily be addressed. At C R Dental Group in Dallas, Tx, Dr. James Reisman and Dr. Jordana Contrucci are experienced in evaluating and treating TMJ and bruxism.
