TMJ/TMD

TMJ, Bruxism, Teeth Grinding, Jaw / Joint Pain

Dr. Ali Maddahi has successfully managed many patients with Bruxism and TMJ disorders by utilizing custom-fabricated orthotic devices and training patients with exercises that have helped to manage the symptoms.

What is Bruxism? Bruxism is the grinding of teeth. This condition can cause jaw pain and teeth problems. You may not notice that you’re grinding your teeth during sleep. Symptoms include loose teeth, teeth sensitivity, sensitivity to cold air or water, chipping of teeth and sharpening of teeth.

What Are the Symptoms? There are several symptoms including disrupted sleep, headaches or facial pain (especially in the morning), earaches, painful or loose teeth, sore and painful jaw muscles, teeth fractures, wear on teeth, jaw joint sounds like clicking or popping, jaw joint pain with eating, jaw locking.

What Are the Causes? The exact causes are not well known. It could be an evolutionary phenomenon or a disruption in jaw growth and development in childhood. The changes in occlusion and bite of individuals, stress, sleep disorder, anxiety, and habits are considered to be contributory factors but many think that one of the main causes of bruxism / clenching is the disorder of jaw joint.

What Is TMJ, TMD? TMJ is referred to as the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) and a joint with signs and symptoms of pain, teeth and joint damage and sounds in the joints (known as the Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)). It involves structures that make up the joint apparatus.

What Are the Treatments? There are several methods including orthotic devices, occlusal splints, nightguards, physical therapy, medications and botulinum toxin therapy.