Dental occlusion is the way in which the jaws bite together â when this is disrupted it can affect the temporomandibular joint, gums and jaw muscles, causing a wide range of symptoms.
Dental occlusion is the way in which the jaws bite together, but for some this is not a simple process and problems may occur. TMJ stands for the 'temporomandibular joint' which connects your skull to your lower jaw. The movement of this joint allows your mouth to open and shut, playing a key role in the act of chewing from one side to the other.
If the teeth do not fit together in the correct way this not only results in problems for the teeth, but can also affect the temporomandibular joint, the gums and the muscles involved in jaw movement. These issues are collectively known as 'occlusal' problems. Symptoms can include severely worn teeth, teeth prone to breaking, misaligned teeth, loose crowns, fractured fillings, permanent toothache, and tenderness when biting.
A faulty bite can worsen problems such as receding gums or loose teeth. Pain, grinding or clicking in the jaw joints, a buzzing or ringing in your ears, and trouble with closing or opening your mouth are indicative of something wrong in how your teeth meet. If the jaw is not in the correct position the muscles can become tired because they have to work harder, often leading to muscle spasms. Primary symptoms can include constant migraines or headaches, sinus pain, pain behind the eyes, pain in the shoulders and neck, and effects on the muscles in the back.
Many will not be aware that they are doing it, but clenching or grinding your teeth can be a sign of a problem. This is sometimes a result of anxiety, while many people clench their teeth if they are concentrating on an arduous task. You may also find that you have a stiff jaw when you wake up or tenderness when you bite. In most cases, people who grind their teeth do so during sleep and are unaware of the condition. All of the above symptoms can be signs that you have a TMJ problem. If there are any teeth missing towards the back of the mouth it can cause an unbalanced bite, creating uneven pressure on the teeth. These symptoms together are all known as TMJ syndrome.
You should first make an appointment with your dentist to analyse your condition. They may refer you to a specialist in occlusal problems. If the dentist deems the cause to be an incorrect bite they may suggest the patient uses a soft temporary night guard to fit over the lower and upper teeth. The appliance will be measured and fitted to make sure the teeth meet correctly and do not strain the muscles. You may be advised to wear the appliance all the time or only during night. If it succeeds in relieving the symptoms your bite may require permanent correction.
Careful adjustments can be required to help your teeth meet correctly. Changing the position and direction of the slopes which guide the teeth together will often help in repositioning the jaw.
The temporomandibular joint requires an equal amount of support from both sides of each jaw. The action of chewing will only work correctly if all teeth are in the appropriate positions. Teeth that are missing usually require replacement in the form of bridgework or a partial denture. Replacement will not be carried out before a diagnosis is confirmed through the use of an appliance that has relieved the symptoms fully.
Certain drugs can be administered to offer pain relief, but this will often be a temporary solution. Relief can also be provided if less stress is placed on the joint â corrective exercises, external heat and a soft diet can all be helpful. Physiotherapy exercises can be demonstrated by your dentist. Relaxation therapy and counselling can help many patients by making them more aware of stressful situations and teaching them how to control tension.
If the teeth are misaligned or in completely the wrong bite position, an orthodontic appliance can help to align them and improve jaw function.
The symptoms are experienced by as many as one in four people. It affects both men and women equally, but it tends to be more common for women to seek treatment. Hormonal changes such as the menopause can often trigger symptoms. Many will have missing teeth and imperfect occlusion but not have the symptoms described above because they have adjusted to the problem. You should see your dentist if you suspect TMJ is the cause of your dental problems.
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