People who grind their teeth can sometimes develop a serious problem with their jaw, which left untreated, can adversely affect the teeth, gums, and bone structure of the mouth.
One of the most common jaw disorders is related to a problem with the temporomandibular joint, the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull, and allows your upper and lower jaw to open and close and facilitates chewing and speaking.
Minor cases of TMD involve discomfort or pain in the jaw muscles. More serious conditions involve improperly aligned joints or dislocated jaws. The most extreme form of TMD involves an arthritic condition of the jaw joint. Traumatic injuries can also cause jaw dislocation.
Drs. Ricciuti, Albanese and Moore can provide patients with appliance therapy, such as custom-made Mouthguards, that help keep the jaw properly aligned. Appliance therapy can often successfully relieve the symptoms of TMJ disorder.
