How We Treat TMJ Disorder

TMJ Disorder Holding You Back? We Can Help!

If you’ve ever experienced persistent jaw pain, clicking sounds when you chew, or frequent headaches, you may be dealing with TMJ disorder. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is responsible for the movement of your jaw, allowing you to speak, chew, and yawn comfortably. However, when this joint becomes inflamed or misaligned, it can lead to discomfort, difficulty in jaw movement, and even chronic pain. At Comfort Dental, we offer expert care to diagnose and treat TMJ disorder, helping you find relief and restore normal jaw function.

 

What Is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder, also known as temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), occurs when the jaw joint and surrounding muscles experience dysfunction or strain. This joint connects your lower jaw (mandible) to the skull, allowing movement for essential functions like eating and speaking.

 

Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

TMJ disorder can present itself in different ways, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness that worsens when chewing or speaking
• Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
• Limited jaw movement or a locked jaw
• Frequent headaches or earaches
• Facial pain or soreness, especially around the temples
• Neck and shoulder tension due to jaw misalignment
• Difficulty chewing or biting down evenly

 

What Causes TMJ Disorder?

Several factors can contribute to the development of TMJ disorder, including:

• Teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism) 
• Jaw misalignment or bite issues
• Arthritis in the jaw joint
• Jaw injury or trauma
• Stress and muscle tension

 

How We Diagnose TMJ Disorder

At Comfort Dental, our approach to TMJ disorder begins with a comprehensive evaluation. We take the time to listen to your concerns and assess your symptoms to determine the best course of action. During your visit, we may:

• Perform a physical examination to check jaw movement, tenderness, and clicking sounds
• Take X-rays or digital scans to examine the jaw joint and surrounding structures
• Evaluate your bite alignment and look for signs of teeth grinding or clenching
• Once we identify the cause of your TMJ disorder, we can develop a personalized treatment plan to relieve your pain and restore jaw function.

 

How We Treat TMJ Disorder

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for TMJ disorder, which is why we offer a range of treatment options depending on the severity of your condition. Some of the most effective treatment methods include:

1. Custom Night Guards and Splints: If teeth grinding or jaw clenching is contributing to your TMJ disorder, a custom night guard or oral splint can help. These devices are worn at night to reduce pressure on the jaw joint and prevent further strain. Unlike store-bought options, our custom-made night guards are designed for a precise and comfortable fit.
2. Bite Adjustment and Orthodontic Treatment: If your TMJ disorder is caused by a misaligned bite, we may recommend orthodontic treatments such as braces, clear aligners, or bite adjustment procedures. Correcting your bite alignment can relieve strain on the jaw joint and prevent further discomfort.
3. Physical Therapy and Jaw Exercises: Certain jaw exercises and stretches can help strengthen the muscles around the TMJ and improve flexibility. We may recommend simple exercises to practice at home, such as controlled jaw opening and relaxation techniques to ease tension.
4. Stress Management and Lifestyle Changes: Since stress and muscle tension can worsen TMJ disorder, we may recommend stress management techniques such as meditation, relaxation exercises, or therapy. Small changes, such as avoiding chewing gum and eating softer foods, can also reduce strain on the TMJ.
5. Medications for Pain and Inflammation: For patients experiencing significant discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications may be recommended to reduce inflammation and muscle spasms. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can provide temporary relief while other treatments address the underlying issue.
6. Advanced Treatments (In Severe Cases): For severe or persistent TMJ disorder, more advanced treatments may be necessary. In some cases, injections or minimally invasive surgical procedures may be recommended if conservative treatments do not provide relief. However, surgery is typically a last resort when all other options have been exhausted.

 

Find Relief from TMJ Disorder at Comfort Dental

If you’re struggling with jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing, you don’t have to suffer in silence. TMJ disorder is a treatable condition, and the team at Comfort Dental is here to help. Through a combination of personalized care, advanced technology, and expert treatment options, we can develop a plan to relieve your discomfort and restore normal jaw function.

 

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.