• Relief to be Able to Chew

    A little note of thanks for bravely rising to the challenge of doing my very narrow root canal filling! It is such a relief to be able to chew on both sides of my mouth again without fear of a shooting pain. :) Best wishes Margaret Hedley

  • A note to say “Thank You”

    Dear Sarah, Just wanted to drop you a note to say "Thank You". I have no trepidation or nerves associated with my visits to the dentist as I know that I shall be in a relaxed environment and treated with care and attention. As a Dental Hygienist, you have the (no doubt from time to [...]

  • Thank you for My Dazzling Smile

    Dear Julie, Thank you for my dazzling smile ( well, you were right - no-one noticed but they did when I kept telling them about it!) The retainer is still in place and very tolerable, so I am keeping my fingers crossed that all will be well. Nev thinks my teeth look wonderful ( well [...]

  • Testimonial-Csilla Fekete

    "As a regular patient of Rosehill Dental Practice, I have always enjoyed my experience at the clinic. May I take this opportunity to congratulate you all on a wonderful service that you have offered me and the impeccable work I have received. Dr. Scott is the single most accommodating and professional dentist I have ever [...]

TMJ Pain Dysfunction and Bruxism

What is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the name used to describe grinding,clenching or gnashing of the teeth.
This genrally occurs whilst sleeping or concentrating very hard and is usually something that is completely subconscious.

What problems can bruxism cause?

Within the mouth long term grinding of the teeth can cause

  • premature wearing of the tooth enamel,
  • cracking or fracturing of teeth and dental restorations,
  • more rapid gum recession ,
  • increased mobility of teeth and even early loss of teeth.

Outside of the mouth many symptoms are attributed to bruxism including:

  • jaw pain (temperomandibular joint pain)
  • limited mouth opening
  • headaches
  • pain in the jaw and shoulder muscles
  • earaches
  • disturbed sleep patterns

Likely people to be a bruxist.

People most at risk commonly :

  • have other sleep disorders, eg:
    • Snoring
    • Obstructive sleep apnoea
    • Snoring
    • Sleep talking
  • stressful lifestyles
  • are smokers
  • have a high alcohol intake
  • have a high caffeine intake (6+ cups of tea or coffee a day)
  • take medicines for sleep, depression and/or anxiety issues.

Treatments

A good percentage of cases improve with the use of an occlusal splint, which is a small plastic appliance , a little like a gum shield, and simple physiotherapy.
Cases that are resistant to this may need referal to a TMJ specialist, which we can organise for you.

If you are concerned that you may have TMJ problems or be suffering from the effects of being a bruxist please contact us and we will be happy to help.