The Link Between Bruxism and TMJ Disorder

Let’s start with two definitions: 

1. Bruxism: teeth grinding
2. TMJ disorder: a problem with one or both of your temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which are the joints that allow you to open your mouth

Researchers don't know exactly how the two conditions may be related. At Century City Smiles, Dr. Shawn Saidian has successfully helped patients with one or both problems by prescribing and creating custom night guards. Let’s review each condition, the latest research on their relation, and how a night guard may help. 

Bruxism

Some people grind their teeth in their sleep, and don’t know it until Dr. Saidian tells them. Some people grind their teeth when they are under stress. Regardless of the reason for bruxism, it can cause a number of problems, including: 

• Headache
• Jaw pain
• Worn-down teeth
• Cracks, chips, or fractures in your teeth

In other words, grinding your teeth causes pain and damage. 

TMJ disorder

TMJ disorder is a bit more complex, and could be caused by problems with your joint itself, the muscles and other tissues surrounding the joint, a condition such as arthritis, or an injury. Although the research community is divided on the topic, it’s possible that bruxism may lead to TMJ disorder. 

Some symptoms of TMJ disorder include: 

• Pain in your face, on your jaw, in your neck, or in your shoulders when you chew, speak, or even open your mouth
• Pain when you yawn or open your mouth wide
• Your jaw gets stuck or locks when either opened or closed
• A clicking or popping sound when you open or close your mouth, either with or without pain
• Feeling as if your teeth aren’t fitting together properly
• Swelling in your jaw area
• Toothaches
• Earaches
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Unexplained pain in your shoulders

You may not have all of these symptoms, and they may come and go or steadily get worse over time, and it’s important to know the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder if possible. That’s because if you have a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis causing your pain, you need to get treatment for the underlying problem. 

When a night guard can help

If you grind your teeth in your sleep, a night guard is likely the best way to get relief. A night guard is a soft, flexible piece of material that fits between your teeth and prevents them from rubbing against each other. 

At Century City Smiles, your night guard is made to fit your mouth perfectly. Dr. Saidian takes an impression of your teeth, which we send to a lab to make your night guard. 

A night guard is safe and comfortable. Although researchers aren’t completely sure how or why TMJ disorder and bruxism may be related, using a night guard can’t cause harm and may lead to less pain for you. 

If you have pain in your jaw or you have any of the symptoms listed for bruxism or TMJ disorder, schedule an appointment for an evaluation at Century City Smiles.