Gum Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that can damage soft tissue and destroy the bone supporting your teeth. It ranges from gingivitis (mild inflammation) to periodontitis (serious infection that can lead to tooth loss).

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Causes of Gum Disease

Several factors contribute to gum disease, including:

  • Poor oral hygiene leading to plaque buildup

  • Smoking and tobacco use

  • Genetic predisposition

  • Hormonal changes

  • Certain medications and medical conditions (like diabetes)

Plaque hardens into tartar, which harbors bacteria that inflame and infect your gums.

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Early Signs and Symptoms

Detecting gum disease early is crucial. Look out for:

  • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums

  • Persistent bad breath

  • Receding gums or longer-looking teeth

  • Loose teeth or changes in bite

  • Pain or discomfort while chewing

Early intervention prevents serious damage and tooth loss.

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Treatment Options

1. Professional Dental Cleaning

Removing plaque and tartar above and below the gum line to stop infection.

2. Scaling and Root Planing

Deep cleaning for more advanced gum disease to smooth root surfaces and help gums reattach.

3. Medications

Antibiotic gels, mouth rinses, or oral medications may be used to reduce bacteria and inflammation.

4. Surgery (If Needed)

In severe cases, procedures like flap surgery or bone and tissue grafts restore gum and bone health.

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Prevention Tips

  • Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste

  • Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth

  • Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings

  • Avoid smoking and maintain a healthy diet

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Contact Pain Free Dentists Sydney

Protect your gums and prevent tooth loss. Schedule a consultation today:

TMJ Botox: Relief for Jaw Pain and Bruxism

What Is TMJ Botox?

TMJ Botox involves small, targeted injections of botulinum toxin into jaw muscles to relax overactive muscles. It’s a minimally invasive treatment for TMJ disorders, chronic jaw pain, and teeth grinding. By calming hyperactive muscles, Botox reduces tension and prevents further damage to teeth and jaw joints.

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How TMJ Botox Helps With Bruxism

Patients with bruxism often grind or clench their teeth, especially at night. TMJ Botox works by:

  • Relaxing the masseter and temporalis muscles

  • Reducing teeth clenching and grinding

  • Alleviating headaches and jaw soreness

  • Preventing tooth wear and fractures

This treatment complements other solutions like night guards and physical therapy.

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Who Can Benefit from TMJ Botox?

TMJ Botox is ideal for people who:

  • Suffer from chronic jaw pain

  • Grind or clench teeth due to stress or TMJ disorders

  • Experience headaches related to jaw tension

  • Have cracked or worn-down teeth from bruxism

A consultation with a dentist experienced in TMJ therapy is essential to determine the correct dosage and treatment plan.

Keywords: TMJ treatment, chronic jaw pain, teeth grinding relief, cracked teeth prevention

What to Expect During Treatment

  • Quick, minimally invasive procedure (usually under 15 minutes)

  • Mild discomfort at injection sites

  • Noticeable relief within 3–7 days

  • Effects last around 3–6 months

TMJ Botox is safe when administered by trained dental professionals and can be combined with other TMJ therapies.

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Contact Pain Free Dentists Sydney

Ready to relieve jaw pain and stop teeth grinding? Contact us today:

Cracked Teeth Due to Bruxism: The Hidden Impact of TMJ Disorders

Understanding Cracked Teeth

Cracked teeth are more than just a cosmetic concern—they can lead to pain, sensitivity, and even tooth loss if left untreated. One of the most common causes of cracked teeth is bruxism, a condition characterized by teeth grinding or clenching. Over time, the excessive pressure can weaken enamel and cause fractures.

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What Is Bruxism and How Does It Affect Your Teeth?

Bruxism is the habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, often during sleep. While some people may not notice it, the long-term effects on teeth are significant:

  • Worn-down enamel

  • Increased tooth sensitivity

  • Micro-fractures leading to larger cracks

  • Damage to dental restorations such as crowns and fillings

People with TMJ disorders are especially susceptible because their jaw muscles are already under stress, amplifying the grinding forces.

Keywords: bruxism, teeth grinding, TMJ pain, jaw disorder

The Role of TMJ Disorders in Tooth Damage

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull. Dysfunction in this joint can cause:

  • Jaw pain and stiffness

  • Headaches or earaches

  • Increased teeth grinding

When bruxism occurs alongside TMJ dysfunction, the risk of developing cracked teeth rises dramatically. The uneven pressure from misaligned jaw movements weakens teeth, making them prone to fractures.

Keywords: TMJ disorder, temporomandibular joint, jaw pain, cracked teeth risk

Signs Your Cracked Tooth Might Be Related to Bruxism

You may have a cracked tooth caused by bruxism if you notice:

  • Sharp pain when chewing

  • Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods

  • Visible cracks or chips

  • Frequent headaches or jaw soreness

Early detection is crucial to prevent further damage and costly dental procedures.

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Prevention and Treatment Strategies

1. Night Guards and Occlusal Splints

Wearing a custom night guard can protect teeth from grinding while relieving TMJ stress.

2. TMJ Therapy

Treating the underlying TMJ disorder through physical therapy, stress management, or corrective dental work reduces grinding.

3. Dental Restorations

Cracked teeth may require bonding, crowns, or veneers to restore function and aesthetics.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments

Reducing stress, avoiding hard foods, and practicing jaw relaxation exercises can prevent further damage.

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When to See a Dentist

If you suspect bruxism or a TMJ disorder is causing cracked teeth, don’t wait. Early intervention can prevent severe fractures, preserve your natural teeth, and relieve jaw pain.

Contact Pain Free Dentists Sydney today:

Protect your smile and stop jaw discomfort before it gets worse—schedule a consultation now.