TMJ & Bruxism
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the tendency of certain people to clench or grind their teeth by sliding or rubbing the teeth back and forth over each other. This habit can occur both during the day and at night, speaking of day or night bruxism, depending on the case. Night bruxism is usually more difficult to control. We do not know the exact causes of bruxism, but we do know the risk factors for suffering it. One of the main risk factors is stress, especially in daytime bruxism.
What is the TMJ?
The Tempor-Mandibular Joint, called TMJ, is made up of bones and muscles, ligaments and joint capsule that allow the mouth to open and close. It is found on both sides of the head, and both TMJs work simultaneously when chewing, speaking, or swallowing. The TMJ also controls the lateral and forward movements that the jaw can make.
Each TMJ has a meniscus between the head of the mandible (condyle) and the articular fossa. This meniscus is like a disk that, like a cushion, cushions the occlusal forces of the mandible and allows the mandible to open widely thanks to a first circular movement and then translation. Any alteration of this complex muscular, ligamentous and meniscal system can be the cause of TMJ dysfunction and pain.
Orofacial pain can have various origins and is often related to the TMJ (temporo-mandibular joint) and the muscles, ligaments, and tendons that relate to it.
Our Methodology
At Clínica Birbe, we begin by making a precise diagnosis of the origin of the problem and which will subsequently guide the most appropriate treatment to follow. For this, in addition to a complete interview and physical examination, we often require a scanner and / or MRI.
We have a first step of conservative treatments and measures to follow, and if they are not enough, we continue with infiltrations (arthrocentesis), closed surgery (arthroscopy) and, ultimately and in certain conditions, open surgery. The initial conservative treatments are:
- Eat soft foods
- Avoid biting your nails and gum
- Apply heat to painful areas
- Relaxation techniques to control tension at the jaw level such as biofeedback or meditation
Conservative treatments are physiotherapy in its various modalities and the use of the discharge splint. Intra-articular infiltrations or arthrocentesis have two objectives: to wash the joint and joint fluid of inflammatory molecules, and to inject anti-inflammatory medication. We also seek to make a hydraulic expansion of the joint, to recover the space necessary for the correct mobility of the meniscus.
Arthroscopy seeks, in addition to visualizing and washing the joint, to fix the meniscus in its correct position with a pin.
Open surgery for reasons of osteoarthritis is rare. In case of meniscus perforations or ruptures of the same. If there are joint pathologies such as tumors or ankylosis or fractures, each of them requires a specific surgical treatment.
Finally, in cases of great wear and tear and joint destruction, it may be necessary to place a TMJ prosthesis, similar to those used in the hip.
What symptoms are suffered with TMJ disorders or bruxism?
Pain
Pain in the face, jaw, ears, temples, neck that often radiates to the head.
Limited Movement
Limited movement to open the mouth or locking of the jaw when closing.
Stiffness
Stiffness in the jaw muscles due to prolonged contracture of the same.
Malformation
A change in the way the teeth fit together due to the action of contracted muscles.
Chewing Problems
Difficulty or discomfort chewing certain foods.
Muscle Spasm
Muscle spasms around the jaw that do not give way and are involuntary.
Our Recommendations
Why have an operation at Birbe Clinic?
We are specialists in designing faces and smiles.
At Birbe Clinic we have a great team, mentored by Dr. Joan Birbe, with more than 20 years of experience treating patients; always up to date with news and selecting the innovations that really bring improvements to our treatments. As in the case of virtual simulations of facial surgeries, intraoral scanners, customization of facial prostheses, the use of the microscope, etc.
Testimonials
Our priority is to achieve excellence in treatment. All this with a personalized, honest and trustworthy treatment. In addition, our facilities offer maximum hygiene, sterilization and comfort.
We help you carry out the intervention you need
After a rigorous evaluation we will offer you a personalized and closed estimate with all the necessary forms of payment and financing, so that you can carry it out.
Contact Us
Contact us during our business hours of:
- Monday, Thursday and Friday from 8.00h to 16.00h.
- Tuesday and Wednesday from 8.00h to 18.00h.
- Phone Number: +34 93 212 47 37.
Outside of our business hours you can send us a WhatsApp or a form and we will answer you as soon as possible. Being located in Barcelona, we receive patients from all over the national and international territory.
During your first consultation we will provide you with:
✔ Personal diagnosis by oral and facial examination.
✔ Closed estimate with different financing possibilities.
