Do you grind your or clench your teeth during the day or even at night? You may not realize it, but you may be experiencing an issue called bruxism. Signs and symptoms of bruxism can include:

• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Facial pain
• Locking of the jaw
• A popping or clicking in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
• Tongue indentations

If left unattended, bruxism can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMD. Symptoms of can include pain or swelling in your face or neck area, trouble chewing, or feel discomfort in your jaw area when eating. This disorder is most common among people between the ages of 20 and 40. Additional symptoms of TMD can include: jaw popping and stiffness, migraines, misaligned teeth, eye pain, and ear aches. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, be sure to visit a dentist in Nashville, TN to get evaluated for a specific treatment plan to address this issue.

Treatment Options for Bruxism and TMD

A dentist in Nashville, TN can offer various treatment options for TMD to help you control the teeth grinding and clenching that are associated with it. These treatment options can include:

• Behavior changes. A dentist may show you different techniques to control your tongue and teeth movements throughout the day.
• Mouthguard. A plastic mouthguard that you can wear at night to absorb the force of biting and reduce further teeth damage may be given to you. It can also be worn during the day as needed. A dentist in Nashville, TN can custom fit you for a mouthgard that will be the best option for you.
• Medicine. Some medicines may be helpful in regulating the neurotransmitters. Changing medicines may be needed if antidepressant medicines are found to be the cause of bruxism.
• Dental work can also be a valuable way to address TMD situations. For instance, if the bite is misaligned, dental work to bring it into alignment can relieve pressure on the jaw joint. The type of dental work recommended will vary from patient to patient.

TMD and bruxism can be a significant disruptor of life due to associated symptoms of discomfort, pain, and irritated jaws. Getting treatment to fix this issue is very important for those that may suffer from TMD and/or bruxism. This is another reason why it is so important to make sure that you get in contact with the best dental professional that is knowledgeable about this issue and will guide you to the best treatment option for you to help protect your teeth from any additional damage.

Make Bruxism And TMD A Thing Of The Past Now!

Dr James R Pace and the expert team at Belle Meade Family Dentistry in Nashville, TN have extensive experience in treating TMD and bruxism and will work with you to find the best TMD treatment to assist you in achieving relief from the discomfort of TMD. The team thoroughly exams your jaw muscles and joints to determine which devices would be the best fit and will offer education to you about any helpful lifestyle changes that may help. Dr Pace and his team are excited to help you get relief and get back to living a pain free life!

Call our doctors, Dr. Pace, Dr. Sullivan, Dr. Pace J, and the great team at Belle Meade Family Dentistry in our office in Nashville, TN today to get started and schedule an appointment today!