TMJ Treatment / Teeth Grinding

TMJ disorder is a condition affecting the temporomandibular joints, which connect your jaw to your skull and control how your mouth opens and closes. When these joints are not functioning properly, it can cause jaw pain, headaches, facial soreness, and other unpleasant symptoms.

TMJ disorder can develop for a number of reasons, including teeth grinding or clenching, a misaligned bite, jaw injury, arthritis, or prolonged stress that leads to chronic muscle tension. In many cases, more than one factor contributes to the condition.

TMJ treatment options include custom night guards to reduce the effects of grinding and clenching, in-office physical therapy techniques to relieve muscle tension, and collaboration with physical therapy partners for cases that need additional support. Treatment is tailored to your specific symptoms and the underlying causes.

A night guard is a custom-made appliance worn over your teeth, usually at night. It cushions the jaw and prevents the upper and lower teeth from grinding against each other. It reduces the pressure placed on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, which helps relieve pain and protect your teeth from wear.

Jaw tension caused by TMJ disorder is a common trigger for chronic headaches and migraines. The muscles involved in jaw movement are closely connected to those in the head, neck, and shoulders. When they are consistently overworked or strained, headaches can become a frequent and frustrating symptom of the underlying problem.

Untreated TMJ disorder can worsen over time. Ongoing grinding and clenching can wear down tooth enamel, damage restorations, and increase stress on the jaw joints. Addressing the condition early with the right treatment helps prevent further damage and makes it easier to manage symptoms before they become more severe.

TMJ treatment is generally not painful and is focused on relieving the discomfort you are already experiencing. A custom night guard is comfortable to wear and noninvasive. Physical therapy techniques used in the office are gentle and aimed at reducing muscle tension rather than causing additional discomfort during or after your appointments.

The length of TMJ treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms and which treatments are involved. Some people notice significant relief within a few weeks of wearing a night guard. Others with more complex cases may need ongoing care over several months. Your dentist will give you a realistic expectation of your timeline.