Joint TMJD's typically lead to a popping or clicking of the jaw joint, the jaw locking, pain at the side of the jaw joint (usually one sided), and headaches.

Muscle TMJD will lead to pain on both sides of the jaw joint, headaches, and a difficulty opening and closing the mouth.

Additional Symptoms

In addition, any of the following symptoms may also be present: pain in the shoulders, back, or neck; tinnitus (ringing in the ears); dizziness; blurred or double vision; vertigo and nausea; hearing problems; and pain in front of the ears.

Treatments

Treatments for TMJD's include medications, mouth guards, splints, surgery, and even joint replacement, but the role of massage and trigger point therapy should not be overlooked and is recognized by medical practitioners.

There are a large number of muscles around the head, neck, and shoulders and to get relief from muscular TMJD's it is best to treat all of these.

As stress and tension can be contributory factors to TMJD's, massage work to relax both mentally and physically will never be wasted. 

Masseter - Common Trigger Point Sites

Medial Pterygoid - Common Trigger Point Sites

Remember, not all therapists practice trigger point therapy, and not all will be familiar with the treatment of TMJD's. The good news is that many are, and many do .... so have a chat with your therapist about trigger points, and they should be able to tell you exactly what it is that they can do for you!

Bruxism

Bruxism is a disorder that involves excessive jaw clenching or grinding. The condition occurs in about 20% to 30% of people and can cause a lot of damage to teeth and oral health.

The causes of bruxism are not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of physical, psychological and genetic factors. A doctor can diagnose bruxism by asking you questions about the way you chew, bite and clench your teeth. He or she will also examine your teeth and face to check for signs of bruxism and damage, and ask if you have any family history of bruxism.

A doctor may also test you for certain medications that can lead to bruxism, such as antidepressants and certain types of sleeping pills. Some of these medications can have a negative effect on the brain’s neurotransmitters, which can trigger jaw clenching and tooth grinding.

Other risk factors include age, gender and personality type. Having an aggressive, competitive or hyperactive personality type can increase your risk of bruxism.

Mental disorders, anxiety and stress are other possible factors that can lead to bruxism. Some people with mental illness or anxiety disorder may have a hard time controlling their emotions, which can trigger clenching or grinding.

Personality traits, such as anger and frustration, can also trigger bruxism. These types of people may clench their teeth because they feel they need to protect themselves or others from pain.

Another risk factor is sleep apnea, which can be caused by breathing abnormally during sleep. This condition can increase a person’s chances of developing bruxism, as it can cause frequent arousals during sleep.

Medications that can make a person more likely to clench or grind their teeth are known as sedatives. These can be used to help a person relax before going to bed and to stop grinding when they wake up.

There are also muscle relaxants that can be prescribed to a patient, which can reduce the intensity of jaw clenching and tooth grinding. These medications can be taken before bedtime, but patients should consult with their doctor to determine which one will be best for them.

The most important thing to remember when dealing with bruxism is that it can be treated. Your physician or dentist can help you find a treatment that will work for you which will often include referral to a massage or manual therapist.

Bruxism can cause many serious problems, so it is important to get the help you need right away. There are treatments that can stop clenching and grinding, as well as repair any damage it has done to your teeth.

Understanding what causes bruxism is crucial to treating it effectively. Some of the most common causes are stress, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking and certain medications.

Psychology

Various studies have shown that bruxism is more common in people who have a high level of stress and anxiety. This is thought to be due to the increased sensitivity to stress that people with bruxism are more likely to have.

A psychiatrist can prescribe medication to treat a person’s stress, and help them deal with their problems. A psychologist can also help patients develop coping strategies and manage their stress. Psychological treatments can be effective in reducing the severity of bruxism, and they can often stop it completely. 

This blog is intended to be used for information purposes only and is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or to substitute for a medical diagnosis and/or treatment rendered or prescribed by a physician or competent healthcare professional. This information is designed as educational material, but should not be taken as a recommendation for treatment of any particular person or patient. Always consult your physician if you think you need treatment or if you feel unwell.