TMJ and TMD Treatment
Your jaw joint is a complex mechanism that allows the jaw to move up, down and sideways for chewing and speaking. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can be affected by issues with tooth alignment, tendons and other problems, restricting movement and causing pain. TMJ disorders, referred to as TMJ or TMD, are common and can cause significant discomfort. Our dental team at Smile Design Studios offers effective TMJ treatments with general dentistry to give patients relief.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
The most common symptom of TMJ or TMD is jaw or facial pain. Aching in the jaw can be the first sign there is a problem with your temporomandibular joint. However, not everyone has localized jaw pain. Symptoms can radiate to the neck, ears and shoulders. Possible symptoms of TMD include:
- Pain in the jaw, lower face, neck or shoulders
- Headaches
- Ear aches
- Clicking, popping or grinding during jaw movement
- Locking of the jaw
- Difficulty chewing
Stress on the jaw joint can cause TMJ. This can be due to misaligned teeth, jaw clenching, teeth grinding and other issues. To get relief, a thorough examination is needed to determine the cause of TMJ. Once the cause is identified, treatments can be recommended to relieve stress on the jaw joint that will also alleviate symptoms.
Treatments for TMJ depend on the cause. Orthodontics may be recommended to realign the bite, and teeth or dental work may be needed to restore balance in the bite. One common treatment is the use of a dental mouthguard when sleeping. This can adjust the jaw and relieve stress on the joint, offering relief from symptoms.
If you have been diagnosed with TMJ or have symptoms of TMD, contact our office to schedule a dental exam. We will provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan for those suffering from temporomandibular joint disorders.
