Teeth Grinding

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Teeth Grinding and Headache Treatment in Mona Vale

At Park St Dental Practice in Mona Vale, we specialise in diagnosing and treating teeth grinding (bruxsim), headache and TMJ disorder (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction). These conditions often cause persistent headaches, jaw pain, facial discomfort, and other symptoms that can significantly affect daily life.

Dr Neda Gorji, our Principal Dentist, has extensive experience in managing TMJ-related pain and headaches. She offers her patients clinically proven, non-invasive treatment options aimed at improving function, comfort, and overall quality of life.

What Is TMJ Disorder?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge that connects your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull, located in front of each ear. It plays a vital role in chewing, biting, and speaking. When the TMJ or surrounding muscles become inflamed or misaligned, it can lead to TMJ disorder (TMD).

Common Causes of Teeth Grinding and TMJ Disorder

While once thought to be primarily stress-related, TMJ disorders can result from a combination of factors, including:

  • Misaligned bite (malocclusion)
  • Narrow upper jaw or post-orthodontic issues
  • Physical trauma or jaw injury
  • Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching), especially during sleep
  • Sleep apnoea
  • Nail biting and other parafunctional oral habits
  • Chronic mouth breathing or jaw tension

These issues can strain the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, leading to long-term discomfort.

Symptoms of Teeth Grinding and TMJ Disorder (TMD)

TMJ disorder symptoms vary widely, making diagnosis complex. Common signs include:

  • Chronic headaches or migraines
  • Jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
  • Limited or uneven jaw movement
  • Neck, shoulder, or lower back pain
  • Tooth sensitivity, burning sensations, or dry mouth
  • Facial pain or pressure, especially around the temples or ears
  • Tiredness, poor sleep, anxiety, and depression
  • Posture-related issues such as forward head posture

In children: bed-wetting, open-mouth breathing, or frequent night waking

TMJ Treatment Options at Park St Dental Practice

We begin with a comprehensive clinical and radiographic assessment to understand the root cause of your symptoms. Treatment is tailored to each patient and may include:

Muscle Relaxant Injections:  Injection of botulinum toxin (muscle relaxants) in the facial muscles can help reduce spasms and clenching, offering significant relief from pain and tension.

Custom Dental Appliances: Specially designed splints or night guards to reduce bruxism, relieve jaw tension, and improve bite alignment. 

Our Commitment to Holistic Pain Relief

At Park St Dental Practice, we aim to relieve not just the dental symptoms but the wider impact TMJ disorder has on your body and wellbeing. While facial pain and headaches are the most commonly treated symptoms, many patients report dramatic improvements in their sleep, posture, mood, and energy levels after treatment.

If you’re experiencing chronic jaw pain, teeth grinding, or unexplained headaches, TMJ disorder could be the cause. Early diagnosis and conservative treatment can provide lasting relief.
Call us today on (02) 9997 5770 or Book Online to schedule a consultation with Dr Neda Gorji at Park St Dental Practice in Mona Vale.