Many habits like grinding and clenching can progress to cause significant problems namely TMJ disorders (temporo-mandibular joint syndrome).
These habits can be known as bruxism and many patients are unaware of these harmful habits as it takes place while asleep.
TMJ Disorders are mild to severely debilitating discomfort in the face and jaw and even neck, shoulders and back related to dysfunction of the working together of the upper and lower jaws.
People often run into a hard time getting a diagnosis, and an even harder time getting treatment and relief.
As many patients are unaware of the problem, dental check ups can be the only way to identify this problem.
Symptoms of malocclusion include:
- Excessive clenching and grinding of your teeth
- Stiff or tender jaw especially in the morning
- Severe headaches and stiff neck and shoulder
- Difficulty and pain when moving your jaw
- Repeat fracture of fillings
- Chipped teeth
- Apply excessive damaging loads to the teeth and dental implants (if present). It can be particularly harmful to restorations like cosmetic veneers London.
In addition, malocclusion or dental occlusion is when the biting surfaces of the teeth do not properly fit together. The way teeth grow out of the jaw is influenced by a number of factors, as genetics, shape of the jaw, and certain environmental conditions can lead to uneven variations in biting surface.
If left untreated these variations in jaw structure can eventually cause problems with biting, gum health, speech development, and the ability to maintain proper oral hygiene.
Dr Daoudi specialist cosmetic dentist London has special interest in managing TMJ disorders.
Careful examination is needed to determine the extent of the problem and any underlying factors.
The treatment varies from simple self-help remedies like heat and cold packs, limit jaw movement and soft diet do not treat TMJ long-term, temporary relief may be found. However, professional TMJ treatment by your cosmetic dentist will certainly help.
It involves many folds including the use of medications, bite correction and dental appliances / bite guard / gum shield custom made splint. Such appliances may also help improve your bite and the ability for the lower jaw to fall properly into the temporomandibular joint socket.
