Teeth Grinding

Are You Constantly Grinding Your Teeth?

TMJ-related teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, refers to the habit of clenching or grinding your teeth, often involuntarily, especially during sleep, due to issues with the temporomandibular joint. Several factors can contribute to TMJ-related teeth grinding:

Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress and anxiety can lead to teeth grinding, as the body’s response to stress can cause muscle tension in the jaw and face.

Misaligned Bite: If your teeth don’t come together properly when you bite down, it can create discomfort in the jaw joint, leading to grinding or clenching.

Sleep Disorders: Certain sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, can increase the likelihood of teeth grinding during sleep.

Medical Conditions: Conditions like Parkinson’s disease and Huntington’s disease can result in involuntary muscle movements, including teeth grinding.

Medications and Substances: Some medications and substances, like certain antidepressants or stimulants, can contribute to teeth grinding as a side effect.

Lifestyle Factors: Consuming caffeine, alcohol, or using tobacco products can sometimes exacerbate teeth grinding.

Malocclusions: Dental issues like crooked teeth or an uneven bite can increase the risk of grinding due to the extra pressure on the jaw joints.

TMJ-related teeth grinding can cause various symptoms and complications, including jaw pain, headaches, earaches, and damaged teeth. It’s essential to address the underlying causes and manage the condition to prevent further discomfort and dental problems. A dentist or oral health professional can diagnose and provide treatment options based on the specific factors contributing to your bruxism. These might include stress management techniques, relaxation exercises, dental splints or mouthguards to protect teeth, physical therapy, and in some cases, dental procedures to correct misalignments or other dental issues.

TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of San Diego Can Assist With Your Teeth Grinding

The TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of San Diego offers specialized expertise and comprehensive solutions for individuals struggling with teeth grinding. Through a holistic approach, our dedicated team assesses each patient’s unique condition to determine the underlying causes of the issue. By combining advanced diagnostics with personalized treatment plans, our centre addresses factors such as stress, misaligned bite, and sleep disorders that contribute to teeth grinding.

With a range of interventions including custom-designed oral appliances, behavioral therapies, and collaborative efforts with sleep specialists, we aim to alleviate discomfort, prevent dental damage, and promote overall well-being. The centre’s commitment to ongoing monitoring and patient education ensures that individuals receive effective, tailored care to manage their teeth grinding concerns effectively and achieve a better quality of sleep and oral health.