Family Dentistry Services
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) affects approximately 15% of Americans. If you are experiencing discomfort, stiffness, or dysfunction from the joint that connects your jaw to your skull, you may be in need of treatment. We can help relieve any discomfort you may have by visiting our office.
Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located under your ear and is where your jaw connects to your skull. This joint is commonly susceptible to discomfort, tenderness, and dysfunction. Tempro-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome (TMJ) is a common condition affecting a wide variety of people. TMJ is characterized by severe headaches, jaw pain of varying degrees, grinding teeth, and intermittent ringing in the ears. The vast majority of TMJ sufferers are unaware that the root cause of these problems is something that a dentist can effectively treat.
Common symptoms to look out for:
TMJ could be a result of several different problems. Bad bites are the most common, but an injury resulting from a blow to the meniscus cartilage is also a possibility. Initially, the dentist will thoroughly examine the jaw area, the patients bite, take x-rays, and review the patient’s history in order to make an accurate diagnosis and recommend necessary treatment.
Once a firm diagnosis is attained, there are several ways in which relief can be provided. A specially molded bite guard can be created to stop teeth grinding during the night. A bite relationship analysis may be recommended by the dentist. The dentist can also provide advice on relaxation techniques which will lessen the effects of stress. As a last alternative, the dentist is also able to prescribe muscle relaxants.
Temporo-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome (TMJ) is a condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing symptoms such as severe headaches, jaw pain, teeth grinding, and intermittent ringing in the ears. Many people are unaware that these issues are related to TMJ, but a dentist can diagnose and effectively treat the condition to alleviate the discomfort.
TMJ treatment often involves non-surgical methods, such as realigning the teeth (also known as bite adjustment) to stop teeth grinding and alleviate jaw pain. Dentists may also create a custom bite guard to prevent nighttime grinding or recommend relaxation techniques to reduce stress-related symptoms. In more severe cases, muscle relaxants or restorations may be suggested to correct the bite and improve dental health.
A better option is to change the shape of the teeth and get rid of the bad bite completely, often called “realignment.” This is especially useful because it alleviates TMJ symptoms and may improve the aesthetic appearance of the teeth as well. Realignment involves adjusting the relationship between how the upper teeth come together with the lower teeth. This may require new restorations and/or adjusting the natural teeth as well. It is not a painful procedure, and it is one the dentist has performed with great success numerous times. As with any procedure, the dentist will be happy to answer questions and discuss symptoms, options, and treatments.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of TMJ, we encourage you to contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
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