Bruxism Vs. TMJ: What You Should Know
Jaw pain is a condition faced by over 10 million people around the world, with many cases being related to oral problems known as bruxism and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). If left untreated, these symptoms will eventually lead to adverse effects on your oral wellness and health.
Because bruxism and TMJ tend to go hand in hand, they can often be confused with one another. Before you seek out treatment, you must first correctly identify which condition may be contributing to your jaw pain. Enter the debate of bruxism vs. TMJ!
Jaw Pain Causes
Jaw pain or discomfort can be caused by multiple conditions. One of the most common occurs when you unintentionally clench and grind your teeth together — this is known as bruxism. Over time, the muscles within the jaw become strained, leading to a tight or achy sensation.
Other conditions which may cause jaw pain include but are not limited to:
- Gum disease
- Toothache
- Arthritis
- Sinis infections
- Tetanus (lockjaw)
- TMJ
- Abscessed teeth
- Mumps
- Physical trauma or injury to the jaw area
What is Bruxism?
As mentioned above, bruxism is defined as the unconscious action of grinding your teeth. This usually occurs at night, though it may happen during the day as well (especially in times of stress). While symptoms might not be noticeable at first, your dentist should be able to point them out during your scheduled visits. These include:
- Worn down or chipped teeth
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Pain along the jaw and ear areas
- Damage to dental applications (i.e. fillings)
- Loss of hearing
- Sleep disruption
- Noticeable scars on the inside of the cheek
The direct cause of bruxism can be a challenge to pin down. However, there are a few notable contributors to the development of the condition, such as tooth misalignment or prolonged periods of anxiety. Genetics might also play a role, as well as other mental health conditions like dementia, epilepsy, or Parkinson’s disease.
What is TMJ?
Often confused with bruxism, TMJ develops when one or both of the temporomandibular joints (the joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull) experience an issue that prevents normal functioning. Those with TMJ often suffer painful symptoms, and the condition will only continue to get worse over time. With enough progression, you may lose some control over your jaw entirely, as the pain can make it difficult to go about your day. You might also experience:
- Lockjaw
- Difficulty closing jaw all the way and swollenness
- Pain around the facial area, including headaches
- Ear aches or congestion
- Difficulty chewing
- Clicking sounds when opening the jaw
- Worn, sensitive, or broken teeth
- Dizziness
Similar to bruxism, identifying the root cause behind TMJ can prove difficult, though genetic factors have been proven to increase risk. If you have any related health conditions (i.e. arthritis or jaw injuries), you may be more susceptible to these symptoms.
Are Bruxism and TMJ Connected?
It’s time to put the bruxism vs. TMJ debate to rest! Despite their similar symptoms, they are two separate conditions — though in some cases they may be related to one another.
For example, some individuals can develop TMJ after extended periods of bruxism, but not always. Excessive teeth grinding can wear your jaw down to such a degree that it can become imbalanced. Conversely, the pain associated with TMJ may induce grinding, leading to bruxism symptoms.
Note that the main difference between the two is that while bruxism is mainly caused by the grinding and clenching of teeth, TMJ evolves from the misalignment of one or both of your temporomandibular joints.
Treatments for Jaw Pain
Treatment for TMJ is dependent upon the reason your jaw becomes imbalanced (if a cause can be determined). For instance, if your TMJ is caused by a traumatic injury, it will likely heal on its own without professional intervention. On the other hand, if the condition is related to tooth loss or grinding, you will most likely require surgical reconstruction.
Bruxism treatments begin with a thorough examination of the mouth. If tooth damage is identified, your dentist may recommend veneers, crowns, or dental implants. After your teeth are restored, you may also receive a mouth guard to prevent further damage from grinding during sleep.
When Should I See a Dentist?
Because treatments for bruxism and TMJ are mainly preventative, you must contact your dentist ASAP if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms. This will ensure that the condition is identified early on, which will minimize further damage and provide you with the most efficient treatment option.
Put on Your Best Face with Lee Simon!
Suffering from jaw pain? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Lee Simon today for a pain-free tomorrow!