How TMJ Affects Your Teeth, Jaws, and Overall Oral Health
TMJ disorder isn’t just about annoying jaw pain, it can have a serious ripple effect on your entire mouth.
From worn-down teeth to bite issues and long-term discomfort, TMJ can quietly cause more damage than many people realize. Here at Goehring Dental in Austin, TX, we see firsthand how untreated TMJ symptoms can impact patients’ oral health, and we’re here to help you understand what’s really going on behind that jaw tension.
TMJ and Your Teeth: A Not-So-Great Relationship
When your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) isn’t functioning properly, it can throw off your bite and lead to harmful habits like clenching and grinding, often without you even knowing it. Over time, this can cause significant wear and damage to your teeth.
Here’s what we commonly see:
Worn-down enamel, which weakens your teeth’s natural protection
Small fractures or chips, especially near the edges of your teeth
Increased tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure
Uneven bite patterns that can affect how your teeth fit together
If left unchecked, these issues can lead to more serious treatments down the line, such as fillings, crowns, or even root canals.
It Doesn’t Stop with Teeth
TMJ disorder doesn’t just stay in your jaw, it can affect how your entire mouth and face feel and function.
Some common symptoms include:
Jaw muscle fatigue or soreness, especially at the end of the day
Tension headaches and neck pain, often from clenching
Bite shifts that make chewing or speaking feel awkward or uncomfortable
Without treatment, ongoing strain can lead to long-term joint damage, which may make future treatment more complicated. We don’t want that for you, and we’re sure you don’t want to deal with that any longer.
How can we help with TMJ discomfort?
(Hint: Nightguards and Invisalign®)
The good news? You don’t have to live with the discomfort. Here at Goehring Dental, we take a personalized approach to TMJ treatment based on your symptoms and bite.
We often start with a custom-fitted nightguard that helps relax your jaw, minimize grinding, and protect your teeth while you sleep. Many patients see noticeable improvements with regular use.
For patients whose bite alignment is contributing to the problem, Invisalign® may be a great option. By gently guiding your teeth into a more balanced position, it can reduce pressure on the TMJ and relieve strain over time.
Don’t let TMJ wear down your teeth or your quality of life!
Ready to protect your smile?
Contact Goehring Dental today to explore treatment options that bring relief and results. Giving us a call at (512) 892-8822 or contact us by filling out the form below. Take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!
