TMD/Bruxism Night Guards Saint-Lazare
Bruxism is a condition in which you grind or clench your teeth. It can occur while you are awake or during sleep. Mild bruxism may not require treatment, but frequent or severe cases can lead to jaw disorders, headaches, damaged teeth, and other oral health issues.
Signs and Symptoms of Bruxism
- Teeth grinding or clenching, which may be loud enough to wake a sleep partner
- Flattened, fractured, chipped, or loose teeth
- Worn tooth enamel, exposing deeper layers of the tooth
- Increased tooth pain or sensitivity
- Damage from chewing on the inside of your cheek
- Jaw, neck, or facial pain or soreness
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult your dentist. Regular checkups can reveal damage caused by grinding or clenching, and your dentist may recommend a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth.
TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) is a condition that affects the joints connecting your upper and lower jaw, often resulting in pain and restricted jaw movement.
Signs and Symptoms of TMD
- Pain or tenderness in or around the ear, jaw, face, or temples
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- Clicking, popping, crunching, or grinding sounds when chewing, yawning, or opening your mouth
- Associated neck pain or headaches
TMD can result from multiple factors, including jaw injuries, joint diseases like arthritis, muscle tension, bruxism, and stress, which can exacerbate the symptoms.
How Your Dentist Can Help
To diagnose TMD, your dentist will perform a comprehensive medical and dental evaluation, which may include panoramic X-rays to assess the jaw joint and surrounding structures. Muscle and tissue assessments of the head and neck may also be conducted. Your dentist may recommend specific exercises, treatments, or a referral to an oral and maxillofacial specialist for further evaluation.
