Tooth Grinding & TMJ

Understanding jaw pain, tension and grinding

Many people experience discomfort in their jaw, face, neck or head without realising it may be linked to the way their teeth bite together. The temporomandibular joints — known as the TMJ — allow your jaw to move smoothly when speaking, eating and yawning. When these joints, or the muscles that support them, are under strain, it can lead to a group of symptoms known as Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJD).

For some patients, this may be caused by clenching or grinding (bruxism), stress-related muscle tension or the way the upper and lower teeth meet. These issues are known collectively as occlusal problems.

What causes TMJ-related symptoms?

If your teeth do not fit together comfortably, the muscles and joints may work harder to guide your jaw into position. Over time, this strain can cause fatigue in the jaw muscles, inflammation in the joint and changes to the way the teeth wear.

Common indicators may include aching or sensitive teeth, worn or chipped edges, cracked fillings, loose crowns or discomfort when chewing. TMJ disorders can also contribute to a wide range of symptoms, such as:

Jaw pain or tenderness

Clicking, popping or grating noises

Headaches or migraines (often in the morning)

Facial or ear pain

Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

Neck, shoulder or back pain

Difficulty opening the mouth fully

Dizziness

Because many conditions — such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, back problems or posture-related issues — can produce similar symptoms, it is important to have a thorough assessment. If your GP has been unable to identify the cause, a dental evaluation focusing on your bite may help provide answers.

The role of stress and night-time grinding

Stress can significantly influence jaw behaviour. Some people clench their teeth during the day without realising, while others grind them unconsciously at night. Over time, this can cause tooth wear, fractures, jaw muscle pain and morning headaches.

However, not every misaligned bite causes pain, and not every person with a “perfect” bite is pain-free. TMJ disorders are complex, and each patient experiences symptoms differently.

How we assess TMJ concerns

There is no single test or gadget that can diagnose every TMJ disorder. Instead, we use our clinical experience to thoroughly examine your bite and the function of your jaw. This includes:

Assessing how your teeth bite and glide over each other

Checking for areas of tooth wear, mobility or fractures

Examining the jaw muscles for tension or tenderness

Evaluating the range of movement of the TMJ

Listening for joint noises during opening and closing

This detailed assessment helps us understand how your bite is working and how it may relate to your symptoms.

Treatment options

The first stage of treatment is often a custom-made bite appliance (also known as a splint or guard). This fits over the teeth and gently guides the jaw into a more relaxed, balanced position. By allowing the bite to settle into harmony, the surrounding muscles often begin to relax and the symptoms gradually improve.

Your appliance will be adjusted over several visits to ensure it brings the teeth together in the most comfortable position and reduces or eliminates your symptoms. For many patients, this is all that is required.

For some individuals, long-term solutions such as restorative adjustments or orthodontics may be recommended once the symptoms have stabilised. Your dentist will discuss all options with you clearly and carefully.

Expert care from a BSOS-trained dentist

Dr Laura Rudge is a member of the British Society of Occlusal Studies (BSOS), an organisation dedicated to the diagnosis and management of jaw pain, headaches, facial pain and occlusal issues. BSOS provides valuable educational resources for patients seeking to better understand their symptoms and the treatment pathways available.

If you are experiencing jaw pain, facial discomfort, headaches or concerns about grinding, our team are here to help. TMJ disorders can be complex, but with a careful assessment and a personalised treatment plan, many patients experience significant and lasting relief.

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