Do you experience frequent headaches, especially in the morning? Do you notice exaggerated musculature in front of your ears? Have you noticed an increase in jaw pain, or even tooth chips and fractures?
These can all be signs of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ or TMD), which is sometimes caused by bruxism (nighttime teeth grinding and clenching).
What Is TMJ/TMD?
Medical and dental professionals commonly use the acronym TMJ or TMD to describe disorders of the temporomandibular joints. These are hinge-like joints that connect the mandible (lower jaw) to the skull. These joints allow for purposeful movement, such as eating, yawning and speaking.
When these joints don’t function correctly, you may notice:
- Head, neck, shoulder and jaw pain
- A clicking noise in the jaw joint
- Pain when eating or yawning
- Tooth wear and fractures (if associated with bruxism or orthodontic issues)
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism refers to the habit of grinding and clenching your teeth while sleeping. The symptoms are like TMJ signs, but you may also notice exaggerated musculature in front of the ears.
Without treatment, bruxism can lead to or increase TMJ symptoms. It can also cost you your teeth!
Jaw Muscle Relaxant Therapy in Newport, VIC
Your Newport dentist offers a treatment plan that may help alleviate or eradicate your symptoms. This is not traditional splint therapy. Instead, we administer injections to targeted areas to relax the muscles that support your TMJs. In turn, these injections curb nighttime teeth grinding and clenching.
You don’t have to experience every symptom to be diagnosed with TMJ or bruxism, so if you notice jaw joint changes or discomfort, it’s essential to book a consultation.
At Portside Dental, Your Comfort and Well-Being Are Always Priorities
To learn more about jaw muscle relaxant therapy or to book a consultation, please contact us on (03) 9967 6131.
We accept Afterpay to help with financing and offer Saturday hours by appointment.