Dr. Wanda Mejia of Westchester TMJ & Aesthetics is an expert in treating Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). While her expertise includes full-mouth rehabilitation and cosmetic dentistry, her passion lies in helping patients manage the painful symptoms of TMJ and achieve restful sleep through effective OSA treatments.

Her dedication to staying at the forefront of advanced diagnostic and treatment techniques has brought relief to patients of all ages throughout upstate New York. If your child grinds or clenches their teeth at night—a condition known as bruxism—addressing the issue early is crucial. Proper treatment can prevent worsening symptoms as your child grows older.

Let’s explore what NY TMJ dentist Dr. Mejia recommends for parents of children experiencing teeth grinding.

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding or clenching. In children, this can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Misaligned teeth: Poor alignment can cause grinding as the teeth try to fit together.
  • Pain: Discomfort from teething or earaches may trigger grinding.
  • Stress: School, changes in routine, or family tension can lead to clenching and grinding, even during sleep.
  • Medical conditions: Conditions like hyperactivity or cerebral palsy (CP) may contribute to bruxism.
  • Medications: Certain medications can list teeth grinding as a side effect.

Parents may notice loud grinding noises at night or observe their child clenching their teeth during the day. Other signs include:

  • A tight or tense-looking facial expression
  • Difficulty chewing or talking
  • Pain when yawning
  • Complaints of tightness or discomfort in the jaw

By recognizing these symptoms early, parents can seek professional evaluation and prevent long-term damage.

What Dr. Mejia Will Do for Your Child

Our Westchester County TMJ dentist takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating bruxism and TMJ in children.

Thorough Evaluation

Dr. Wanda Mejia begins by reviewing your child’s full medical and dental history. She then performs a detailed examination, which may include:

  • Palpating the jaw muscles and joints to identify tenderness or tension
  • Gathering insights from your child about how their jaw feels

Her caring, experienced team ensures children feel comfortable and safe throughout the diagnostic process.

Advanced Diagnostic Tools

Dr. Wanda Mejia employs state-of-the-art technology to provide precise assessments, such as:

  • T-Scan and Electromyography: These tools measure bite force and muscle tension to pinpoint problem areas.
  • TENS Therapy (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): Used to relax the jaw muscles, allowing for accurate measurements.
  • CBCT Imaging (Cone Beam Computed Tomography): A low-radiation imaging method that creates detailed 3D images of the jaw and TMJ.

This data helps Dr. Wanda Mejia craft a personalized treatment plan that addresses your child’s unique symptoms and long-term oral health goals.

Signs and Symptoms of TMJ

Bruxism in children can be linked to TMJ dysfunction. Recognizing the signs of TMJ is key to early intervention. Common symptoms include:

  • Frequent headaches or migraines
  • Jaw pain or discomfort
  • Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds in the jaw
  • Feeling that the bite is “off”
  • Limited jaw motion or locking of the jaw
  • Damage to teeth, such as chips, cracks, or wear
  • Ear-related symptoms like fullness, pain, or ringing (tinnitus)
  • Dizziness or vertigo
  • Pain extending to the face, neck, shoulders, or back
  • Numbness or tingling in the fingers or hands

These symptoms can significantly impact a child’s quality of life, making early evaluation and treatment crucial.

How Bruxism and TMJ Are Treated

Once Dr. Mejia completes a thorough diagnosis, she will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs. This may include:

  • Custom Orthotics: Dental appliances that help align the bite and relieve strain on the TMJ.
  • Behavioral Modifications: Teaching children to avoid daytime clenching and to practice jaw relaxation techniques.
  • Stress Management: Addressing potential stressors through counseling or relaxation exercises.
  • Follow-Up Care: Monitoring progress to ensure the treatment plan is working effectively.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Treating bruxism and TMJ early prevents the condition from worsening as your child grows. Left untreated, these issues can lead to significant problems, such as:

  • Severe jaw pain
  • Permanent damage to teeth
  • Difficulty eating or speaking
  • Chronic headaches

By addressing the issue promptly, Dr. Mejia helps children find relief and avoid long-term complications.

Contact Us to Learn More

If you suspect your child is grinding their teeth or may have TMJ, don’t wait to seek professional care. Call Dr. Wanda Mejia and the team at Westchester TMJ & Aesthetics at (914) 594-6854 to help your child enjoy a healthier, pain-free future.