TMJ and Bruxism

Are you experiencing teeth grinding or clenching or jaw joint pain in Dallas, TX? If so, you may be suffering from a common but treatable dental condition. 

At Loftus Family Dentistry, our objective is to keep our patients stress-free and healthy. Continual pain from oral health issues can be treated. 

If you are suffering from joint pain in Dallas, TX, you may have TMD.

What Is TMD?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. When you experience pain or other TMJ problems, we call it TMD or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. 

We rarely think of things until they’re gone, including our peace of mind. When a part of us is hurt, we suddenly become acutely aware of its existence. The joint that attaches your jaw bone to your skull is in constant use throughout our day to day lives.

Routine actions such as eating, biting, speaking, coughing, laughing, even yawning can be almost impossible if the joint is tender or in pain. 

TMJ has many causes, making diagnosing it a challenge. Since many symptoms can also be caused by other oral health abnormalities like sinus infections or toothaches.

Common symptoms of TMJ include:

• Headaches
• Neck aches
• Ear pain
• Pain when chewing
• Clicking when you open your mouth
• Soft spots around the jaw
• Pain when opening or closing mouth

Patients who display one or multiple symptoms should not hesitate to contact Dr. Loftus. We will conduct a thorough evaluation, including x-rays, to determine the source of your pain.

Our Dallas, TX dental team can appreciate how pervasive pain can be. We work hard to manage pain and cure dental issues so that patients can enjoy a high quality of life. Patients who suffer from TMJ may benefit from treatment options ranging from night guards to pain medication to ease the jaw's clenching.

Patient comfort is our main priority. 

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is a serious oral health condition where patients chew, grind, or clench their teeth. This often happens during their sleep when they are not aware of their actions. 

Sleep bruxism is among sleep disorders that plague our restful nights. Without treatment, bruxism can develop into painful headaches, weakened or damaged teeth, and TMJ problems, among other serious dental conditions. 

Some symptoms of bruxism to look for include:

• Grinding your teeth
• Cracked or broken teeth
• Enamel erosion
• Tooth pain
• Jaw pain
• Tenderness around jaw and neck
• Interrupted sleep
• Headaches
• Earaches

When to See Dr. Loftus

Call our Dallas, TX dental office if any of the above symptoms sound all too familiar. If you notice any dental abnormalities, never hesitate to call us.

TMJ problems, bruxism, and other conditions can rapidly develop into severe disorders without early detection and treatment. Preventive care is the best action to avoid painful, costly, and ongoing oral issues. We are always available to help.