TMJ & Teeth Grinding
What is Teeth Grinding ?
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition characterized by the unconscious clenching or grinding of teeth, frequently occurring during sleep. If not addressed, this issue can result in significant dental and health complications, including worn or chipped teeth, heightened tooth sensitivity, discomfort or stiffness in the jaw muscles, recurring headaches, and disturbances in sleep patterns.
Causes of Teeth Grinding
Bruxism can arise from various factors such as stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for teeth grinding. Sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea may also contribute to nighttime bruxism. Misaligned bites, including dental misalignment, can lead to grinding as the jaw compensates. Additionally, lifestyle habits like smoking, excessive alcohol, or high caffeine intake can worsen bruxism, and certain medications, especially antidepressants, are linked to an increased risk of teeth grinding.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
- Pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, or neck.
- Teeth sensitivity and wear.
- Diagnosing TMJ & bruxism: dental exams, imaging tests.
How TMJ Sleep Therapy Centre Johannesburg Can Assist
At our centre, we adopt a holistic approach to diagnose and treat bruxism, providing comprehensive services such as advanced diagnostics using cutting-edge technology to assess the severity and causes of your condition, custom oral appliances tailored to protect your teeth and reduce grinding, targeted TMJ therapy to relieve joint and muscle strain, integrated sleep apnea management therapies to improve your breathing and sleep quality, and stress management techniques that offer guidance on relaxation and mindfulness to help you cope with stress.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If you’re experiencing symptoms of teeth grinding, don’t wait for the damage to worsen. At TMJ Sleep Therapy Centre Johannesburg, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve optimal oral health and a restful night’s sleep. Schedule a consultation with our experienced team today and discover how we can help you find relief from bruxism.