What are the long-term problems cause by Bruxism and TMJ?
Bruxism and TMJ can result in abnormal wear patterns of the in the teeth. Over time, dental damage will usually occur. If bruxism goes untreated, more serious injury can occur in the loss of tooth enamel, recessed gums, or damage to the jaw alignment. Typically done while sleeping, grinding can cause fractures in teeth, chipped or broken fillings, severe wear or shortening of the teeth, and TMJ pain TMJ is the leading cause of tooth enamel damage and a significant cause of tooth loss and gum recession. People with TMJ may also grind their back teeth, which will wear down the cusps of the occlusal surface. TMJ can be loud enough to wake a sleeping partner. Some individuals will clench the jaw without significant lateral movements. Teeth hollowed by previous decay or dental drilling, may collapse, as the cyclic pressure exerted by TMJ is extremely taxing on the tooth structure.
