WHAT IS BRUXISM?

Bruxism is the involuntary movement of clenching or grinding. It can be exacerbated by stress, anxiety, depression, and other psychological factors. Common symptoms include: clicking and popping of the jaw joint, pain upon opening/closing, tooth sensitivity, gum recession, and tension headaches. Usually done as a coping mechanism, if it persists, it can lead to facial pain and headaches.

3 MOST COMMON REASONS FOR BRUXISM:

1) Stress

2) Anxiety

3) Depression

TREATMENT OPTIONS

1. Dental & Physical Treatments:

• Nightguards & Splints – Custom-made oral appliances prevent tooth wear and reduce strain on the jaw.

• Botox Injections – Helps relax overactive jaw muscles to reduce clenching and pain.

• Orthodontic Treatment – Corrects bite misalignment that may contribute to bruxism.

• Physical Therapy – Includes jaw exercises, stretching, and posture correction.

2. Mental Health & Behavioral Approaches:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Addresses stress, anxiety, and habits that contribute to bruxism.

• Biofeedback – Helps patients become aware of and control muscle tension in the jaw.

• Relaxation Techniques – Meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness can reduce stress-related clenching.

3. Medication & Alternative Approaches:

• Muscle Relaxants – Prescribed for severe cases to ease jaw tension.

• Anxiolytics or Antidepressants – If bruxism is linked to anxiety or depression, medication may help.

• Acupuncture & Chiropractic Care – Can improve muscle function and reduce pain.

TMJ/TMD (Temporomandibular joint dysfunction)

If you suffer from face and neck pain or recurring headaches, the problem could stem from your temporomandibular joints (TMJ). When functioning properly, these joints allow for pain-free chewing, speaking, yawning, and swallowing.

However, when this joint is out of alignment, many different types of pain and discomfort can occur like clicking or popping. Sometimes, normal jaw motion is even restricted.

Most TMJ treatments can be done at home and do not require surgery.

What are TMJ and TMD?

TMJ: TMJ refers to the transmandibular joint itself.  People have 2 joints, one on each side of the face. It acts like a sliding hinge that connects the jaw bone to the skull.

TMD: When the TMJ is in disfunction, causing a disorder to the face, jaw, and nerves. Any problems that prevent the complex system of muscles, bones, and nerves  from working in harmony can result in TMD.

Both TMD and TMJ are used interchangeable to describe the join and disorder. 

There are 3 main classes of TMD:

1. Disorder of the Joint, including disc disorders
2. Disorder of the Masticatory Muscles (muscles used for chewing) and Supporting Muscles
3. Headaches associated with TMD

Common Treatments

Appliance Therapy uses a splint or mouth guard to reduce the stress on the jaw and teeth. It encourages proper jaw placement for optimal muscle functioning. The dentist can fit a custom-made appliance to your mouth to protect your teeth and bite. 

Botulinum Neurotoxin Injections use a neurotoxin protein to help relax the muscle and alleviate pain and tension associated with TMD. Dr. Hegerle is skilled with using xeomin, a botulinum neurotoxin with no preservatives, to provide relief to .This treatment is a non-invasive and relatively painless option for those suffering from TMJ.