What do headaches, migraines, and jaw pain have in common? These are all symptoms that can result from grinding or clenching your teeth, a condition we often refer to as chronic bruxism.
When you grind or clench your teeth, you’re not always aware of it . . .
Sometimes grinding or clenching develops as a bad habit. At other times, it’s in an attempt to alleviate some other pain. You may even find yourself doing it when you feel focused or stressed. Whatever the reason may be, there are potential health complications that can come from grinding and clenching your teeth.
Such health complications include temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, a condition that causes inflammation and pain around the area of the jaw joint.
How Can Seaport Family Dentistry Help Me?
Has anyone told you that you grind your teeth? Do you ever catch yourself clenching your teeth?
The dental experts at Seaport Family Dentistry provide a number of solutions to help alleviate your pain and improve the quality of how you feel.
For immediate headache relief, we often recommend a revolutionary dental device known as the NTI-TSS (Nociceptive Trigeminal Inhibition- Tension Suppression System), which many of our patients cite as highly effective!
Each of our dentists has also trained under the American Academy of Facial Esthetics in the use of Botox, which can provide long-term relief for your headaches and migraines! Our dentists are highly proficient in locating muscle trigger points; and once these points are identified, we might discuss the use of trigger point injection therapy with you.
Don’t continue to accept chronic headaches or a painful jaw as simply part of your everyday life!
What is the difference between an NTI appliance and a nightguard?
An NTI appliance and a nightguard are both designed to help manage teeth grinding, but they work a little differently. A traditional nightguard typically covers most or all of the teeth and acts as a protective barrier during sleep. An NTI appliance is smaller and fits over the front teeth. By limiting contact between the back teeth, the appliance helps train the jaw muscles to relax and reduce the grinding or clenching that can occur at night.
What is the process for getting a custom NTI appliance?
The process starts with a consultation so we can evaluate your symptoms, bite, and jaw function. If an NTI appliance is recommended, we will take quick and precise digital scans of your teeth. These measurements allow us to create a small, custom-fit device designed specifically for your teeth. Once we receive the appliance from the dental lab, we will check the fit, make adjustments if needed, and then you’re free to take it home and begin wearing it.
What are the benefits of getting Botox for TMJ from a dentist?
Dentists have specialized training in the muscles, joints, and structures of the face and jaw. When Botox is used to help manage TMJ-related muscle tension, it is carefully placed into specific jaw muscles to help reduce overactivity. This may help decrease jaw pain, headaches, and clenching. Treatment in a dental setting also allows us to evaluate bite alignment and other oral factors that may be contributing to the discomfort.
How long does Botox for TMJ last?
Botox injections used to help manage TMJ-related muscle tension typically provide relief for several months. Many patients notice the effects within a few days, with the full benefit developing over one to two weeks. Results commonly last about three to four months, although the exact length can vary from person to person. If symptoms return, repeat treatments may be recommended to help maintain comfort and jaw function.
