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TMJ and Bruxism Treatment
Need TMJ or Bruxism Relief?

We are pleased to offer personalised TMJ and bruxism treatment in Providence.

TMJ and Bruxism Treatment | Dentist

TMJ/Bruxism Treatment

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) can cause persistent discomfort, headaches, muscle tension and even damage to your teeth over time. At Providence Dental Care, we offer comprehensive TMJ and bruxism treatments designed to reduce strain, protect your smile and restore comfortable, natural jaw function. 

Our approach combines modern dental therapies with supportive techniques that address both the physical and lifestyle factors contributing to your symptoms. Whether you’re experiencing jaw clicking, morning headaches, worn teeth or tight facial muscles, we’ll help you find a customised solution that fits your needs.

Therapeutic Injectables for TMJ Relief

Therapeutic injectables, commonly used to relax overactive facial muscles, are an effective, minimally invasive option for patients experiencing jaw tension, clenching or TMJ-related pain. When specific jaw muscles become overworked, they put pressure on the TMJ and surrounding structures. Therapeutic injectables help calm these muscles, aiming to recude strain and alleviate symptoms such as:

  • Jaw stiffness or soreness
  • Tension headaches
  • Clenching-related discomfort
  • Facial muscle tightness
  • Tenderness near the temples or cheeks

Treatment is quick and typically provides relief within days, with results lasting several months. Therapeutic injectables can be used alone or in combination with other therapies for enhanced effectiveness.

Benefits of TMJ and Bruxism Treatment

Jaw pain, headaches and teeth grinding can interfere with daily life, sleep and overall oral health. TMJ and bruxism treatments can help address the root causes of these issues, providing relief, protecting your teeth and improving jaw function. Here are three benefits of seeking professional care.
Relief from Pain and Discomfort
TMJ disorders and bruxism can often cause jaw soreness, facial tension, headaches and more. Professional treatment is designed to reduce muscle strain and ease pressure on the jaw joint.
Protection of Teeth and Oral Health
TMJ and bruxism treatments, such as custom night guards or splints, can help prevent damage to teeth and dental restorations. Protecting your teeth can preserve your smile and reduce the need for dental work in the future.
Improved Jaw Function and Muscle Balance
Proper treatment can help restore natural jaw alignment and encourage balanced muscle function. Many patients often notice smoother movement, reduced clicking or popping and less stiffness of the jaw joints.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Custom Oral Appliances

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.

Routine Dental Check-Ups

Routine dental visits allow your dentist to monitor your teeth and jaw for early signs of wear or TMJ-related problems. Timely detection means interventions can be implemented before significant damage occurs, helping maintain oral function and comfort.

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.

TMJ and Bruxism Treatment in Providence, SA

Do you live with TMJ pain or bruxism? We welcome your call! 

Oral Appliance Therapy

For many patients, a custom-made night guard or splint is the most effective way to protect teeth and reduce jaw stress. Oral appliance therapy in Providence works by repositioning the jaw, relieving pressure on the TMJ and preventing damage caused by grinding or clenching.

Our appliances are designed to:

  • Reduce nighttime grinding (bruxism)
  • Prevent enamel wear and chipped teeth
  • Improve jaw alignment
  • Ease morning jaw fatigue or soreness
  • Reduce tension on surrounding muscles

Because each appliance is custom-fitted, it's designed to make ensure a comfortable, secure feel and optimal protection.

Physical Therapy and Stress-Relief Guidance

TMJ disorders and bruxism often involve more than just the teeth and jaw; they can be influenced by muscle strain, posture, and everyday stress. To support long-term improvement, we offer guidance on simple at-home exercises, gentle stretching techniques and behavioural strategies that help reduce clenching habits throughout the day.

This may include:

  • Jaw relaxation exercises
  • Posture improvements for work and sleep
  • Warm compress or massage techniques
  • Identifying and managing daytime bruxism triggers
  • Tips for reducing stress-related jaw tension

These supportive measures complement clinical treatment and help create lasting relief and healthier habits.

  • Dr Caleb Harvie B.HSci(Dent) M.Dent

    Dr Caleb Harvie is the principal dentist and founder of Providence Dental Care, where he leads the practice with a focus on high standards of care for both patients and ...

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  • Dr Meg Harvie BHSc MDent DClinDent (Paediatrics)

    Dr Meg Harvie is a specialist paediatric dentist with extensive experience managing complex paediatric dental cases. She is skilled in providing treatment under nitrous oxide sedation and general anaesthesia, aiming ...

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A Comprehensive Approach to Jaw Health

Jaw pain and bruxism can affect one's comfort, sleep and dental health, but with professional dental care, relief is within reach. Our TMJ and bruxism treatments are tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle and goals. By combining therapeutic injectables, oral appliances and supportive guidance, we aim to deliver a well-rounded plan that improves function, protects your teeth and helps you maintain a more comfortable jaw.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ dysfunction or grinding and want lasting solutions, our team at Providence Dental Care is here to offer our help.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.