Bruxism in Mona Vale
Bruxism involves involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth, often during sleep or periods of concentration and stress. While treatment cannot simply stop bruxism, we can assess and manage associated jaw pain, muscle tenderness, headaches and neck symptoms.
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism refers to repetitive jaw muscle activity involving clenching, grinding or bracing of the jaw. It can occur while awake or during sleep, and many people are unaware they are doing it.
Repeated clenching or grinding can increase load through the jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints and teeth. For some people this is painless, while others develop jaw fatigue, facial pain, headaches or associated TMJ symptoms.
Common Symptoms
Jaw aching or fatigue
Tight or tender jaw muscles
Teeth grinding or clenching
Headaches around the temples
Jaw pain or stiffness on waking
TMJ discomfort or clicking
Tooth sensitivity or wear
Neck or facial discomfort
How We Assess Bruxism
Bruxism can occur for a number of reasons, and musculoskeletal assessment cannot determine every factor contributing to teeth grinding or clenching.
Assessment may include jaw movement, TMJ function, tenderness through the jaw and temple muscles, jaw control and assessment of the neck where relevant.
The aim is to identify the musculoskeletal symptoms associated with your bruxism and determine which factors may be addressed through treatment, exercise and self-management. Dental assessment may also be recommended where appropriate.
How We Treat Bruxism
Treatment depends on how long symptoms have been present, their severity and the activities you want to return to.
Treatment may include:
Osteopathic manual therapy
Jaw mobility exercises
Jaw control exercises
Neck mobility and strengthening
Activity and habit modification
Education and self-management
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Osteopathic treatment is not designed to directly stop sleep bruxism. Treatment instead focuses on associated musculoskeletal symptoms such as jaw pain, muscle tenderness, stiffness and neck discomfort.
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Bruxism may be associated with headaches, particularly around the temples where the temporalis muscles are located. However, headaches have many potential causes and should be assessed appropriately.
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Jaw clenching can occur during concentration, stress or other waking activities, while sleep bruxism is influenced by different factors related to sleep and the nervous system. There is not always a single identifiable cause.
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A dentist can assess tooth wear, dental damage and whether a splint or other dental management is appropriate. Musculoskeletal treatment can be used alongside dental care when jaw pain or associated symptoms are present.
Common Questions
Is Clenching or Grinding Leaving Your Jaw Sore?
If clenching or grinding is associated with persistent jaw pain, headaches or muscle tension, we can assess the musculoskeletal factors involved and develop an appropriate management plan.