TMJ Blog

How Does TJz Balm Help with TMJ? 

Mouth guards: What You Need To Know

For those who suffer with night-time Bruxism-teeth grinding and clenching-mouthguards are the gold standard for protecting teeth from being worn away as a consequence of teeth grinding. But did you know that mouthguards do not resolve the root cause of the problem and can actually promote teeth grinding and jaw clenching?  

Teeth Grinding At Night?

Chronic teeth grinding at night is called sleep bruxism.

What is bruxism?

Bruxism is defined as repetitive jaw muscle activity characterized by clenching and/or grinding of teeth that happens involuntarily.

To brux or bruxing means to clench and/or grind your teeth.

This condition can occur during the day or while sleeping and affects adults and children.

Causes of Bruxism

• Abnormal alignment of the jaw
• Situational anxiety
• Stress
• Intense concentration 
• Certain type of antidepressant medication

Bruxism Can Lead to Other Problems

• Temporomandibular (TMJ) disorders
• Tooth wear and restoration failure

Signs and Symptoms of Bruxism

• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Facial pain
• Sensitive teeth
• Headaches
• Tension in the face and neck
• Locking of the jaw
• Jaw pain
• Popping or clicking of the TMJ 

TMJ Disorder / TMD or Bruxism?

More than 10 million Americans suffer with TMJ disorder. TMJ disorder (also known as TMD) is four times more common in women than men, especially between the ages of 20 to 40.

TMJ disorder or TMD (temporomandibular disorder) develops from problems with the fit between the upper and lower teeth, the jaw joint, and the muscles in the face that control chewing and moving the jaw. The improper functioning of these jaw muscles and joints causes pain when opening and closing the jaw or chewing.