TMD/Bruxism Night Guards Edmonton
Bruxism is a condition that causes you to grind, clench, or press your teeth together, either while awake or during sleep. Many people are unaware they have bruxism until symptoms begin to appear. Left untreated, chronic teeth grinding can lead to worn enamel, damaged teeth, jaw pain, headaches, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems.
While mild bruxism may not require treatment, persistent or severe teeth grinding should be evaluated by a dentist to prevent long-term damage and relieve discomfort.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Bruxism
- Grinding or clenching your teeth, especially during sleep
- Flattened, chipped, cracked, or loose teeth
- Worn tooth enamel exposing the underlying tooth structure
- Increased tooth sensitivity or tooth pain
- Cheek biting or damage to the inside of the mouth
- Jaw pain, facial soreness, or neck discomfort
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a dental examination. Your dentist can identify signs of bruxism during routine checkups and may recommend a custom nightguard to protect your teeth from further damage.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) affects the joints and muscles that control jaw movement. TMD can cause discomfort when chewing, speaking, or opening and closing your mouth. In many cases, TMD is associated with teeth grinding, jaw injuries, arthritis, muscle tension, or chronic stress.
Common symptoms of TMD include jaw pain, tenderness around the ears, facial muscle discomfort, headaches, limited jaw movement, and clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth.
How Your Dentist Can Help Treat TMD
Diagnosing TMD begins with a comprehensive dental examination. Your dentist will evaluate your jaw joints, bite alignment, facial muscles, and oral health. Panoramic X-rays or other diagnostic imaging may be recommended to assess the temporomandibular joints and surrounding structures. Depending on your condition, you may also be referred to an oral and maxillofacial specialist for advanced evaluation.
Custom-made nightguards are one of the most effective conservative treatments for managing both bruxism and TMD. By reducing pressure on the teeth and jaw joints, they help minimize pain, protect tooth enamel, and improve overall jaw function.
