Are You Grinding Your Teeth Without Realizing It?
Frequent jaw clenching can signal the onset of TMJ dysfunction. If not treated, it may lead to headaches, wear on teeth, neck pain, and sleep disturbances. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we emphasize identifying and treating the root causes instead of just managing the symptoms.
Over 70 Centres
Decades
Tens of Thousands
Why Jaw Clenching Happens
Jaw clenching, often termed bruxism, usually occurs as an involuntary response to stress, muscle tightness, or misalignment of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). When there is a discrepancy in the bite or inflammation within the jaw joint, the nearby muscles contract as a compensatory response, even when asleep.
“Sleep bruxism is often connected to sleep-related breathing disorders and temporomandibular joint dysfunction.”
Source: National Library of Medicine
This ongoing muscle tension can result in fatigue, dental wear, and nerve compression in the facial region and head. Numerous individuals demonstrate clenching related to airway obstruction during sleep, as the jaw tightens in an effort to maintain airflow. By restoring balance within the jaw and calming overactive muscles, it is feasible to alleviate pain and related symptoms.
When To Seek Treatment
Waking up with tightness or discomfort in your jaw may signal a tendency to grind or clench your teeth while sleeping.
Chronic muscle tension can radiate to the temples, causing tightness or persistent dull headaches, often located behind the eyes or forehead.
Regular clenching may wear down enamel and expose tooth nerves, leading to discomfort or increased sensitivity.
These symptoms often indicate tension or inflammation in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), frequently exacerbated by continued clenching.
Relief begins with the right diagnosis
Chronic tension in the jaw can lead to lasting harm and continuous pain. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, our non-surgical TMJ treatments focus on addressing the underlying issues of clenching, with the goal of restoring normal jaw function.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jaw Clenching
Jaw clenching is more than just a habit; it often signals problems with the muscles or joints. Here are common inquiries that patients have about this condition.
The muscles may tense up to protect the jaw joint or ensure stability in the airway.
When these muscles are overworked or strained, it can lead to headaches, facial discomfort, and tension in the shoulders.
Many people experience nighttime clenching due to airway issues or muscle imbalances, rather than solely due to emotional stress.
With the right treatment, many patients notice a marked reduction or total elimination of clenching behaviors.
but its effectiveness is maximized when coupled with TMJ therapy that targets the root causes of clenching.
TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre
Global Expertise
As proud members of TMJ International, we are part of a global team dedicated to advancing collaborative care in TMJ disorders and sleep therapy. Together, we bring innovation, expertise, and compassionate treatment to help patients find lasting relief and a healthier quality of life.
If you’re struggling with jaw pain, headaches, or sleep issues, the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Kansas City is here to help. Our team specializes in non-surgical TMJ and sleep therapy solutions designed to restore comfort and improve your quality of life.
Over 70 Centres
Decades