TMJ and Night Guards
Jaw tension, headaches, and worn or sensitive teeth are often linked to grinding or clenching, something many people are not even aware they are doing. These symptoms can build gradually or become more noticeable during stressful periods, busy phases of life, or times when the jaw is under more strain than usual.
At Accent, we take a comprehensive approach to TMJ and grinding management. By assessing the bite, jaw movement, muscle tension, and signs of tooth wear, we can better understand what is contributing to the problem. From custom-made night guards to targeted treatment for muscle-related tension, our aim is to reduce discomfort, protect the teeth, and help you feel more comfortable both day and night.
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Many people grind or clench without realising it, especially during sleep. Often, the signs show up before the habit itself is obvious.
Common signs can include:
Jaw tension or tightness
Headaches, especially on waking
Worn or flattened teeth
Tooth sensitivity
Soreness around the face or temples
Clicking, stiffness, or fatigue in the jaw
Even mild symptoms can be worth assessing early, especially if they are becoming more frequent.
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The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. When the muscles or joint are under strain, it can affect more than just the teeth.
Patients may notice:
Discomfort when chewing
A jaw that feels tight, tired, or hard to relax
Clicking or popping
Difficulty opening widely
Pain that spreads into the head, neck, or face
Because these symptoms can have different causes, a proper assessment helps identify what is actually driving the problem.
How we Assess the Problem?
Good treatment starts with understanding exactly what is contributing to your symptoms. We look at both the teeth and the muscles, as well as the way the jaw is moving and how the bite is functioning.Your assessment may include:
Examining signs of wear or damage
Checking the way your teeth come together
Assessing jaw movement
Looking at muscle tension and areas of tenderness
Discussing symptoms, timing, and possible triggers
This helps us recommend treatment that is appropriate to your specific situation.
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Grinding and clenching commonly become more noticeable during stressful or demanding periods. This may be related to work pressure, poor sleep, lifestyle changes, or simply carrying more tension through the jaw and facial muscles.
This can lead to:
More muscle tightness
Increased jaw fatigue
Greater pressure on the teeth
More frequent headaches
Worsening symptoms over time
Understanding these patterns can be an important part of managing the issue well.
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Treatment depends on what is happening and how much it is affecting the teeth, jaw, and surrounding muscles. For many patients, a custom-made night guard plays an important role in protection and relief.
Management may include:
A custom night guard to protect the teeth
Monitoring wear and bite changes
Advice around daytime clenching awareness
Targeted treatment for muscle tension
A broader plan to reduce ongoing strain and prevent further damage
The aim is not only to manage symptoms, but also to protect the teeth and jaw over time.
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Every smile is different, which is why every treatment begins with a personalised consultation.
We'll take the time to understand your priorities and goals, assess your oral health and recommend the treatment that's right for you.
During your consultation, we'll discuss:
Your personalised treatment options
Your expected treatment timeline
Upfront treatment costs
Available payment options and finance where applicable
Our goal is to make the process clear, transparent and stress-free, so you feel informed and confident before moving forward with your treatment.
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