TMJ Treatment
If you suffer from headaches, breathing issues, dizziness, locked jaw, ear pain or snoring, it could be your Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). Your Temporomandibular Joint is located close to your ear between your upper and lower jaw.
People with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) can experience severe pain or discomfort that may either be temporary or last for many years. A complete dental and medical evaluation is required for proper diagnosis of TMD.
To evaluate whether you have TMD, one of our doctors will check for a variety of symptoms, including clicking or popping of the jaw joint and diagnostic wear patterns of the teeth. Many patients suffer from severe bruxism or grinding of the teeth at night. This can be harmful to your teeth and cause TMJ pain. Some patients simply clench their teeth during the day or at night. Clenching of the teeth is usually linked to increased stress levels. People with clenching, grinding or bruxism habits wear their tooth’s enamel away faster than normal and more frequently suffer from TMD.
Symptoms associated with TMJ Disorder:
- Biting or chewing difficulty or discomfort
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
- Dull, aching pain on the side of the face
- Earaches
- Headaches
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or rough sound when opening or closing the mouth
- Locking of the jaw
Typically, the first line of treatment will be the use of a splint or oral appliance. A TMJ splint or oral appliance is worn to reduce the stress on the jaw. This allows the muscles to function properly and may reposition the lower jaw to fall properly into the TMJ socket.
TMJ appliances are a conservative and reversible treatment option that may provide pain relief. There are many different types of splints and appliances that our doctors can fabricate for you. One of our doctors will complete a clinical examination, use radiographs and your symptoms to help you decide the best treatment for you.
Call us today to schedule a consultation and ask us about our TMD treatment options.
