801-756-0900Are your teeth starting to look dull or flat? Do you wake up with a headache, damaged teeth or dental restorations, or cuts or damage to the inside of your cheeks? Does your partner tell you that you grind your teeth or snore when you sleep? If you have these symptoms, you may have bruxism which could lead to TMJ.
Bruxism is a condition which causes you to grind your teeth when you sleep. This can damage both teeth and dental restorations, or produce a headache. It can be frustratingly difficult to diagnose because you are asleep when the primary symptoms are happening. However, as you are aware of these waking symptoms, you can know if you should be checked for bruxism. If have these symptoms it is important to know that this could be a trigger for a serious condition called TMJ.
A condition related to bruxism is TMJ disorder, or TMD, which deals with your temporomandibularmadibular joint. A TMJ disorder will often cause you to wake up with a sore jaw, increase your tooth sensitivity, or even cause you to have trouble fully opening or closing your mouth when you wake up. TMJ can be caused by bruxism, jaw misalignment issues, an injury to the jaw, emotional or situational stress, or excessive gum chewing, among other things.
Speak with Dr. Carl McMillan for a possible diagnosis and treatment options as soon as possible. If you suspect bruxism, TMJ disorder, or need other dental assistance, set an appointment with TMJ Therapy at our office in American Fork, Utah. We can be easily reached at 801-756-0900. We look forward to seeing you!