Can getting cavities filled trigger previous TMJ symptoms and what's the best way to support TMJ and clenching from stress?
Anonymous Patient
Absolutely. Prolonged opening or opening too wide for an extended period of time, such as filling numerous cavities, can definitely contribute to TMJ symptoms and pain. For many patients I will use a Bite Block to allow them to relax during cavity preparation and fillings.
If grinding is suspected in the evenings during sleep, a night guard should be made to relax the joints during the evening.