What Is Bruxism? And The Connection With TMJ

TMJ disorder and bruxism are medical problems that involve the jaw and sometimes can be interrelated. This can often confuse the patients and can worsen if they try self-medication. That constant jaw pain isn’t just stress, it could be bruxism silently wreaking havoc on your TMJ. 

In this blog, we will explain what bruxism is and how it can be related to TMJ. 

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism refers to the condition of parasomnia during which individuals grind and clench their teeth unconsciously, usually during sleep. Occasionally grinding teeth may not pose great problems, but chronic bruxism may lead to severe damage to the teeth. It can cause pain in the jaw and headache complications. Most people do not even realize they are suffering from bruxism until the symptoms like sensitivity to touch on teeth or discomfort in the jaw present themselves. In extreme cases several problems arise, such as jaw misalignment and damage to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

How Are Bruxism & TMJ Related?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) basically connects the jawbone to the skull. It is especially important in the functions of chewing and speaking. Through bruxism, the TMJ is really working hard, which leads to pain, swelling, and dysfunction. Long-term teeth grinding can contribute to the misalignment of the jaw, muscle fatigue. In some cases, it can cause structural damage to the TMJ. Both bruxism and TMJ disorders involve contraction of the jaw and overuse of the muscles, and thus they frequently occur together. Many patients opining about TMJ disorder (TMD) refer to bruxism as an important factor contributing to their discomfort. 

Signs Of Bruxism

Recognizing the symptoms of bruxism is key to preventing further complications. Some common signs include:

• Persistent jaw pain
• Tightness in the jaw
• Grinding or clenching teeth
• Worn-down, chipped, or sensitive teeth
• Frequent headaches, especially in the morning
• Ear pain without infection
• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth completely
• Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional evaluation.

How To Get It Treated?

Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy type of procedure is best for those in correction for TMJ dysfunction due to bruxism. It is a minimally invasive yet fairly effective procedure. With arthroscopy recovery is quicker than that after open-joint surgery. Thus, arthroscopy provides a good way to restore TMJ functions among patients. After the arthroscopy, some patients might need: 

Jaw Bimaxillary Advancement System: It is required in case there is any misalignment in the jaw structure. It is ideal for long-term restoration of severe face and jaw deformities.

Physical Therapy: Some patients may need physical therapy for a few days to heal better. 

Final Thoughts

The intense grinding of teeth can cause TMJ disorder which many patients might be unaware of. The best way to keep the symptoms from accelerating and causing much harm is to connect with a TMJ doctor like Dr.Luis Gavin. He is the top TMJ surgeon in Dubai with years of expertise. Connect today and receive exceptional treatment.