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Dynamite Smiles Dentistry can alleviate your symptoms related to TMJ Disorders and Bruxism with customized mouthguards, BOTOX treatment, and other non-surgical treatments.

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TMJ Disorders and Bruxism in Scottsdale, AZ

Do you often wake up in the morning with sore jaws or a splitting headache? Are your teeth worn, sensitive, or chipped? If so, you may have a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching).

TMJ disorders are a common affliction many American adults experience. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, TMJ disorders affect more than 10 million Americans, and it also seems to affect women more than men.

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At Dynamite Smiles Dentistry, we want to make sure every aspect of your oral health is cared for. We offer effective treatments for TMJ disorders and bruxism so you can enjoy a painless, comfortable smile free of damage, decay, and sensitivity.

What Is TMJ Disorders and Bruxism?

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) affects the jaw joints, also known as the temporomandibular joints (TMJ). This joint connects the lower jaw to the skull, allowing the jaw to move.

Misaligned TMJ can overstimulate the muscles and nerves, causing a variety of symptoms. Overworked facial muscles can also lead to teeth grinding and clenching, a condition known as bruxism.

Grinding and clenching the teeth can lead to significant wear, breaks, and bite problems if left untreated.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent tooth grinding?

Chronic tooth grinding, or bruxism, can cause headaches, jaw pain, and damage to your teeth if left unchecked. While it most commonly happens during sleep, there are ways to manage and prevent it to protect your oral health and quality of life.

Focusing on stress management, relaxation, daily habits, and dental care can make a big difference. Here are a few simple tips to help prevent tooth grinding:

Address your stress — Stress is a leading cause of tooth grinding. Manage it by practicing relaxation techniques during the day and before bed — like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.
Wear a nightguard — A custom dental nightguard protects your teeth while you sleep.
Check your posture — Proper posture while sitting at your desk can help relax your jaw and avoid clenching.
Massage your jaw muscles — Gentle massaging your jaw muscles can relieve tightness and reduce nighttime grinding.

If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist. They can accurately diagnose your condition, identify potential causes, and offer appropriate solutions. Addressing bruxism early can help you prevent long-term damage and enjoy a pain-free, healthier smile.

Top-Quality Bruxism Treatment in Scottsdale, AZ

If you live in Scottsdale and want a professional diagnosis of bruxism and to learn about treatment options available to prevent the inconvenience, pain, and long-term damage of chronic teeth grinding, contact Dr. Saba Heday and the Dynamite Smiles Dentistry team to schedule a consultation!

Common Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can be a very painful condition that result in difficulties biting, chewing, yawning, smiling, laughing, and even speaking. TMD can greatly affect the quality of a person’s life and oral health, which is why accessible and effective treatment is so crucial.

Though TMD symptoms vary from person to person, common ones may include:

Lockjaw
Tooth sensitivity
Difficulty opening the mouth
Headaches and migraines
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Worn or shortened teeth
Grinding and clenching your teeth
Pain or soreness in the jaws
Facial, neck, or should pain or stiffness
Popping or clicking in your jaw joints

If you have any of these symptoms or you suspect you may have TMJ disorders, we recommend calling to schedule an appointment with Dr. Saba Heday for a gentle oral health evaluation.

Featured Blog Posts - TMJ Disorders and Bruxism

December 20, 2024

Understanding TMJ Disorders: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

A woman with a toothache holding her jaw | dentist in scottsdale

Suffice it to say, our jawbones are pretty important. As such, the temporomandibular joint – commonly known as the TMJ – which connects the lower jaw to the skull and serves as its hinge, facilitating the opening and closing of the mouth, biting, chewing, and speaking, is absolutely vital.

Unfortunately, a variety of TMJ disorders, encompassing a range of conditions, can dramatically affect the proper functioning of this joint and impact a person’s overall quality of life. While TMJ syndrome is not life-threatening, it’s important to understand what it is, how ...

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TMJ Disorders and Bruxism Treatment in Scottsdale, AZ

To determine if you suffer from TMD or bruxism, Dr. Heday performs a comprehensive evaluation to ensure we identify, diagnose, and treat the issue to protect your oral and physical health.

Oftentimes, TMJ disorders and bruxism are related to a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea. Dr. Heday will screen you for TMD, bruxism, and sleep apnea to pinpoint the origin of your pain and discomfort.

There are non-surgical treatments for TMD that may help relieve pain and reduce dental damage and wear. Dynamite Smiles Dentistry primarily prescribes mouthguards and nightguards to help treat TMJ disorders and bruxism.

Mouthguards and Nightguards

To alleviate pain and discomfort from TMJ disorders and bruxism, Dr. Heday can provide you with a customized mouthguard to wear during the day or a nightguard to wear while you sleep. Mouthguards and nightguards reposition the jaws, protect the teeth from wear, and cushion your jaws so they don’t tighten or overstimulate.

BOTOX Treatment

Botulinum Toxin is used in severe clenching/grinding cases to reduce the forces of mastication and allow the structures to relax and heal. Patients feel the greatest relief 14 days after administration and it usually lasts 90-120 days. It is a great tool, that if used in conjunction with other treatment modalities, can lead to significant relief. A smiling woman holding an Invisalign tray

Invisalign

Invisalign can be used to correct misaligned or crowded teeth and reposition your bite. When you have straighter teeth, there is less stress and pressure placed on your jaws, and there is a lower risk of dental damage and wear.

Tooth Reconstruction

Tooth reconstruction can correct collapsed bites with missing teeth or excessive enamel wear. This method involves restoring the teeth to their correct size, shape, and height to ensure the jaws line up properly.

Relaxation Techniques

In addition to providing mouthguards, orthodontics, and dental restorations, Dr. Heday can offer suggestions for relaxation techniques. Some of these techniques may include stretching and stress relief.

Are You Ready for Jaw Pain Relief?

If you are looking for a gentle and understanding dentist who can treat TMJ disorders or bruxism, Dr. Heday at Dynamite Smiles Dentistry can help you.

Call our dental office today to schedule your evaluation, and we can help relieve your TMJ pain.

Meet Our Doctor:

Dr. Saba Heday

“Seeing patients smile confidently is what drives me. I don’t try to fit you into a mold, I create a customized mold for you.” –Dr. Heday

Dr. Saba Heday, an Arizona native, takes pride in caring for the dental needs of her community. She has been practicing in the valley since 2012.

Dr. Heday takes a minimalistic approach to solving difficult problems, a skill she cultivated while earning her Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering (BSEE). Dr. Heday knew she wanted to be a dentist since she was ...