Temporomandibular joint, bruxism & function
Classify symptoms, understand loading and treat selectively
Clicking, pressure, limited mouth opening, muscle tension or morning jaw fatigue may indicate a functional disorder. At the same time, such symptoms are often multifactorial, and not every finding requires dental treatment.
We therefore begin with a clinical functional assessment and determine whether the teeth, muscles, temporomandibular joint or other factors are most relevant.
What does functional diagnostics mean?
Functional diagnostics examines the interaction between teeth, bite, masticatory muscles and temporomandibular joints. Symptoms such as muscle tension, TMJ pain, clicking or visible tooth wear can have different causes and should therefore not automatically be assigned to the same diagnosis.
In our Basel practice, assessment begins with a medical/dental history and clinical examination. Depending on the findings, additional records, appliance therapy, physiotherapy or an adjustment of the restorative plan may be appropriate. The aim is conservative, findings-based treatment.
Possible components of treatment
Information and strategies to reduce loading.
A custom bite splint or Michigan splint when appropriately indicated.
Physiotherapy or further interdisciplinary assessment.
Assessment of tooth wear and functional signs of loading.
Reconstructive treatment only when there is an independent dental indication for it.
Not every click needs treatment
Joint noises without pain or functional impairment may be harmless. The need for treatment depends on symptoms, function and progression – not on a single sound.
Bruxism and dental restorations
In pronounced grinding, we pay particular attention to material selection, design and the protective concept. This applies to natural teeth, veneers and implant restorations.
Further information
Assess symptoms in a differentiated way. We do not treat the radiograph or the clicking sound; we treat the clinical situation and your actual symptoms.
Note: This information is for guidance and does not replace an individual examination and consultation.
