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.
If you’re experiencing pain in your jaw and head as well as clicking noises when you chew, you could have an issue with your TMJ. Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are located on either side of your jaw near your ears and are vital in the opening and closing motions of your jaw.
Because it’s a complex joint, there are many potential causes of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and it can be difficult to pinpoint the reasons behind every case of TMD. But there are a few known causes of TMJ issues.
Sometimes, TMD is caused by the disk eroding or moving out of place, the cartilage is damaged by arthritis, or the joint is damaged in an accident. Though the cause of your TMJ issue may not be clear, it’s still possible to treat it.
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.
At our practice, we’re passionate about providing exceptional dental care for every member of your family. From your little ones to seniors, we offer a warm, welcoming environment where everyone feels right at home. Our goal is to make every visit as easy and stress-free as possible, so you and your loved ones can enjoy a healthy, radiant smile.
We focus on preventive care to keep your smiles shining brightly. Whether it’s routine check-ups and cleanings or treatments like dental sealants and fluoride, we’re here to help maintain your family’s oral health. If you ever need restorative, cosmetic, or emergency care, our experienced team is ready to provide the comprehensive treatments you need. Come experience dental care designed with your family in mind!
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