Rahbar Dentistry PC Treats Bruxism, TMJ and other Conditions in San Francisco
Dr. Gelareh Rahbar sees many patients in her San Francisco office affected by bruxism, a condition in which the teeth wear down through unconscious grinding and jaw clenching. Bruxism can damage the teeth, increase the pressure of the muscles around the jaw, and often leads to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). If you suffer with bruxism, you may not realize you are clenching and grinding your teeth, though you may complain of headaches or other pain in the face or jaw. The condition can be traced to anxiety, malocclusion, side effects of a medication, or a complication from a medical disorder. Contact Rahbar Dentistry PC to learn more about bruxism, TMJ disorders, or to schedule an appointment.
Symptoms of Bruxism
The most obvious symptom of bruxism is wear and tear on the teeth caused by grinding or clenching. Often, the grinding or clenching occurs while you are asleep, making it difficult to consciously stop this damaging action.
Other symptoms of bruxism include:
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Worn, chipped, or flattened teeth
- Pain in the jaw, ear, or face
- Grinding that is loud enough for others (namely your sleeping partner) to hear
TMJ
TMJ disorders cause pain in and around the jaw and ear, and limit the ability for the jaw to function properly. Even seemingly routine actions such as moving the mouth and chewing can be difficult and painful experiences. TMJ disorders are characterized by an uneven bite alignment frequently caused by the improper alignment of or damage to the jaw, or fatigue of the muscles surrounding the jaw. Fatigue is often a result of untreated bruxism. In some instances, there is no cause for TMJ disorder.
Treatment of Bruxism and TMJ Disorders
The treatment for bruxism and TMJ disorders involves pain reduction and the prevention of further damage to your teeth. Most importantly, you must unlearn the behavior causing the grinding and clenching, especially if it is stress or anxiety-related. Relaxation techniques involving the face and jaw may be beneficial in many circumstances. It is often recommended that these measures are exhausted before the use of medication or surgery. Use of a custom made Occlusal Guard (NTI-TSS device) is often the initial measure in managing bruxism. If diagnosed and treated in time, further treatment may not be warranted.
Occlusal Equilibration
Occlusal equilibration is the mechanical adjustment of your teeth, dentures, fillings, or other appliances to a position that allows your lower jaw to function as a natural hinge in relation to your upper jaw. Used for the treatment of bruxism and TMJ disorders, it helps the teeth fit together with equal pressure on all surfaces, creating a more comfortable chewing surface. There are many reasons why teeth and the jaw do not occlude (meet) in a comfortable position, including:
- Numerous fillings or bridges over period of years
- Orthodontics
- Developmental defects
- Oral surgery
- Trauma
- Malocclusion (poor bite)
- Bruxism
We approach occlusion adjustments in a very conservative way. In most cases we will make minor adjustments, and then if you still have discomfort we will make further adjustments until you have the comfort and chewing capability we are trying to accomplish. Your comfort, as well as your ability to chew, is important to us!
Learn More about Bruxism and TMJ Disorders
Dr. Rahbar focuses on treating bruxism, TMJ disorders, and other bite conditions in her patients in the San Francisco Bay Area. Contact Rahbar Dentistry PC to schedule an appointment for the treatment of bruxism or a TMJ disorder.