San Francisco and Marin CA
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ or TMD) is a complex condition affecting the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. This joint is one of the most active in your body and works in tandem on both sides. TMJ problems and tooth damage often go hand-in-hand—teeth grinding, clenching, and decay can both contribute to TMJ and result from it.
Understanding how to manage teeth grinding (bruxism) and TMJ is key to preserving your smile and preventing long-term damage.
Common Causes of Teeth Grinding
To protect your teeth, it’s important to identify what’s triggering your grinding and clenching.
Common factors include:
- TMJ disorders – Misaligned jaw joints can prevent muscles from resting comfortably, causing involuntary clenching.
- Stress and anxiety – Mental health plays a significant role in nighttime or daytime bruxism.
- Depression – Some individuals with depression experience teeth grinding as a symptom.
- Lifestyle factors – Caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco use can increase clenching and grinding habits.
- Medications – Certain prescription drugs list bruxism as a side effect; consult your physician if you notice increased grinding after starting a new medication.
TMJ-related clenching often occurs because your jaw is trying to find a comfortable resting position. This constant muscular strain can cause destructive tooth wear over time.
How Teeth Grinding Damages Your Smile
Bruxism can harm your teeth in several ways:
- Enamel wear (Grinding) – Small particles of enamel wear away, sometimes unnoticed until teeth become sensitive or appear smaller.
- Chipped teeth – Larger fragments of enamel break off, leaving sharp edges or visible pieces in the mouth.
- Cracked teeth – Deep cracks can reach the pulp or roots, potentially requiring more intensive treatment.
- Abfraction – Excessive clenching can cause enamel to flake near the gum line, weakening the tooth.
- Receding gums – Bruxism can contribute to gum recession, exposing roots to decay and increasing the risk of tooth loss.
Factors That Accelerate Tooth Damage
The stronger your teeth, the more resistant they are to grinding, but certain factors increase vulnerability:
- Cavities and tooth decay – Weaken enamel, making teeth more prone to chips and cracks.
- Acidic foods and beverages – Citrus, soda, wine, pickles, and vinegar can erode enamel.
- Dry mouth – Low saliva levels reduce acid neutralization, accelerating wear.
- GERD – Acid reflux exposes teeth to stomach acid, weakening enamel and compounding bruxism damage.
TMJ Symptoms Linked to Grinding
Whether TMJ causes bruxism or vice versa, symptoms can interfere with daily life:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Frequent headaches or facial discomfort
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Jaw locking or difficulty opening/closing
- Popping or clicking sounds
A specialized TMJ dentist can evaluate the neuromuscular function of your jaw, identify the root cause of your pain, and create a treatment plan to restore alignment and comfort.
Repairing Teeth Damaged by Bruxism
Before restoring your teeth, it’s essential to address the cause of your grinding.
Once bruxism is under control, several restorative options can repair damage:
- Porcelain veneers – Ideal for worn or chipped teeth.
- Dental crowns – Treat cracks, abfractions, and severe enamel loss.
- Root canal therapy – Needed if cracks or decay reach the tooth pulp.
- Tooth replacement – Severely damaged teeth may require extraction and replacement with dental implants.
Your dentist may also recommend an ongoing custom bite guard to protect restored teeth and prevent future wear.
Protect Your Smile with TMJ and Bruxism Treatment
If you’re struggling with teeth grinding or TMJ-related tooth damage, early intervention is key. Proper diagnosis and treatment can prevent further enamel loss, alleviate jaw pain, and restore the health and appearance of your teeth.
At Glen Park Dental in San Francisco, our TMJ and sleep dentistry specialists provide customized solutions to protect your teeth and jaw.
Call us at (415) 799-3900 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward preserving your smile.
