How can we help you?
At Providence Dental Care, our friendly team is committed to patient education, and we take the time to answer questions and discuss treatment options. If you live in West Lakes or the surrounding suburbs and have any questions about our treatments or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
TMJ and Bruxism Treatment
While some factors that contribute to TMJ disorders or bruxism—such as genetics, certain medical conditions or stress—cannot be entirely prevented, there are several strategies that can help reduce symptoms and protect your oral health. Early diagnosis and consistent management are key to preventing long-term damage to teeth, jaw joints and surrounding muscles.
Nightguards / Splints
One of the most effective preventive measures is the use of custom-made mouthguards or splints. These devices are designed to fit your teeth precisely, helping to reduce the strain on your jaw muscles, prevent tooth wear and minimise the risk of fractures caused by grinding or clenching.
Relaxation and Stress Management
Because stress and anxiety are common triggers for bruxism, practising relaxation techniques can be highly beneficial. Simple habits like deep-breathing exercises, meditation or gentle jaw stretches can help relieve muscle tension and reduce the frequency of clenching or grinding.
Muscle relaxing injections
Certain medications can be nearly painlessly injected into the muscles of the Jaw which can help minimize the amount of strain they are being put under. Many people find this treatment a wonderful source of relief from their TMJ pain. These injections last 4-6 months, and are very quick and easy to perform.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Limiting caffeine and alcohol, avoiding chewing hard objects and maintaining good posture while sitting or sleeping can also contribute to prevention and symptom management.
Do you live with TMJ pain or bruxism? We welcome your call.
We have a special interest TMJ and Bruxism Treatment, so if you are in the in West Lakes and surrounding suburbs in Adelaide, don't hesitate to make a booking for assessment and management.
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joints, and their involved muscles, bones and ligaments, which connect your lower jaw to your skull and allow you to open, close, and move your mouth. Problems with these joints or the surrounding muscles can cause jaw pain, clicking, stiffness, headaches, and facial discomfort.
Bruxism is the habit of clenching or grinding the teeth, most commonly during sleep but sometimes during the day. Over time, this can place strain on the jaw joints and muscles, wear down teeth, cause fractures, and contribute to headaches and facial pain.
TMJ symptoms and clenching/grinding (bruxism) are often closely linked. Tooth grinding and clenching can overload the jaw joints and muscles, while jaw joint problems can increase muscle tension and clenching.
A dental assessment usually as a part of an exam - can help determine whether your symptoms are related to TMJ dysfunction, bruxism, or a combination of both, and guide appropriate management.