TMD/Bruxism Night Guards Gatineau
Bruxism is a condition characterized by the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth. It may occur during the day, often without awareness, or during sleep. While mild cases may not require treatment, more severe bruxism can lead to complications such as jaw disorders, headaches, tooth damage, and other oral health issues.
Signs and Symptoms of Bruxism
- Grinding or clenching of teeth, sometimes loud enough to disturb sleep partners
- Flattened, chipped, fractured, or loosened teeth
- Worn enamel exposing deeper tooth layers
- Increased tooth sensitivity or pain
- Damage to the inside of the cheeks due to biting
- Jaw, neck, or facial pain and muscle soreness
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult your dentist. Routine dental examinations can also help identify signs of bruxism early. In many cases, a custom mouthguard may be recommended to protect your teeth from further damage.
TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) refers to a condition affecting the joints that connect the upper and lower jaw. It often causes pain and discomfort in the jaw area and may limit normal jaw movement.
Common symptoms of TMD include pain or tenderness around the ears, jaw, facial muscles, or temples. Patients may also experience difficulty opening or closing the mouth, as well as clicking, popping, or grinding sounds during chewing, yawning, or speaking. TMD can also be associated with headaches and neck pain. It is often caused by a combination of factors such as jaw injury, joint disorders like arthritis, stress, and muscle tension, and may be worsened by bruxism.
How can your dentist help with TMD
To diagnose TMD, your dentist will perform a detailed medical and dental evaluation, which may include panoramic X-rays to assess the jaw joint and surrounding structures. The dentist may also evaluate your bite and examine the muscles of the head and neck for signs of inflammation or dysfunction. In some cases, additional exercises or movements may be performed, and a referral to an oral and maxillofacial specialist may be recommended for further assessment.