Bruxism and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

Bruxisme et troubles aux articulations temporo-mandibulaires (ATM)

Jaw pain, premature wear of enamel and teeth noticed during preventive examinations, chronic fatigue, toothaches and headaches: if you have these symptoms, you probably suffer from bruxism. Also known as nocturnal teeth grinding, this habit puts pressure on oral structures, especially the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). At the Centre dentaire Taschereau in Brossard, we can identify these conditions and propose solutions!

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Bruxisme et troubles aux articulations temporo-mandibulaires (ATM)
Qu’est-ce que le bruxisme 

What is bruxism?

Bruxism, or nocturnal teeth grinding, is an involuntary habit of clenching the jaws, with or without lateral movements. It occurs when the muscular mechanisms required for chewing are triggered when they are not needed. Bruxism can occur while awake or asleep, but is more damaging in the latter case, as it cannot be stopped. This puts great pressure on the teeth and other structures of the mouth, which in the long term can develop a number of problems, often irreversible. Fortunately, this habit can be controlled by wearing an occlusal plate at night. This piece, placed between the teeth, relaxes the muscles and protects the teeth, thus limiting the various repercussions of bruxism.

The consequences of bruxism


  • Premature wear of teeth that can lead to deterioration of the natural crown (the part outside the gum line) or breakage of restorations and prostheses;

  • Undue wear of the enamel, leading to dentine oversensitivity and aesthetic damage (visible signs of wear, structural yellowing, etc.);

  • Chronic headaches;

  • Pain in the teeth, jaw and neck on rising, sometimes persisting throughout the day;

  • Sleep problems that make daily activities more difficult;

Les conséquences du bruxisme
Les articulations temporo-mandibulaires
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Temporomandibular joints, prone to certain disorders

To these consequences we can add another: disorders of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ). This term refers to the set of tissues (muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, articular discs) that hold the maxilla (lower jaw) to the skull and allow the mouth to move properly. Whether under the pressure of bruxism or for other reasons (dental imbalances, irregular occlusion, heredity and physiognomic peculiarities, accidents), the disc can become displaced. This leads to TMJ disorders characterized by joint pain, sometimes accompanied by cracking and difficulty in opening the mouth properly.

Bruxism and TMJ disorders: possible clinical solutions

A comprehensive dental evaluation is very helpful in identifying these conditions and determining ways to manage them. Your treatment team at Centre dentaire Taschereau will be able to suggest appropriate solutions, depending on your case. In the case of bruxism, a custom-made occlusal plate can be designed and fabricated. To counteract TMJ disorders, we may also suggest treatments to resolve the original problems (orthodontics, surgery), or to alleviate the difficulties caused (physiotherapy).
Bruxisme et troubles aux ATM

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