At Preston Meadow Family Dentistry, we offer specialized TMJ/TMD therapy to help patients find relief from the discomfort and pain caused by temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. TMJ disorders (TMD) can impact your ability to chew, speak, and even sleep comfortably, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, you can regain normal function and experience lasting relief.
What is TMJ/TMD?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull, allowing you to perform essential functions like chewing and speaking. When there is dysfunction in this joint, it is referred to as temporomandibular disorder (TMD). TMD can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Jaw locking or limited movement
- Headaches or migraines
- Earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
TMD can develop from a variety of causes, including injury, arthritis, stress-related clenching or grinding, or misalignment of the teeth.
Signs You May Have TMJ/TMD
You may have TMD if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent Jaw Pain: Chronic pain or soreness in your jaw, especially when chewing or speaking.
- Limited Jaw Movement: Difficulty opening or closing your mouth fully.
- Facial Pain: Pain that radiates through the face, neck, or shoulders.
- Popping or Clicking: Audible sounds when you move your jaw, often accompanied by discomfort.
Causes of TMJ/TMD
Several factors may contribute to the development of TMD:
- Jaw Injury: Trauma to the jaw or head can damage the TMJ.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Chronic grinding or clenching of the teeth can put excess pressure on the TMJ, leading to pain and dysfunction.
- Arthritis: Inflammation in the joint, such as with arthritis, can affect the TMJ’s function.
- Jaw Misalignment: Bite misalignment or an uneven bite can strain the TMJ.
TMJ/TMD Therapy Options
At Preston Meadow Family Dentistry, we offer a variety of treatments to relieve TMJ-related pain and restore function. Treatment will depend on the cause and severity of your condition, and may include:
- Custom Night Guards or Splints: These devices are worn during sleep to prevent teeth grinding and reduce pressure on the TMJ, providing relief from clenching-related TMD.
- Orthodontic Treatment: If TMD is caused by bite misalignment, orthodontic treatments, such as braces or clear aligners, can help correct the alignment and reduce stress on the TMJ.
- Physical Therapy: Jaw exercises may be recommended to improve mobility and strengthen the muscles around the joint, relieving tension and reducing pain.
- Stress Management: Since stress is a common factor in teeth clenching, we may recommend techniques to reduce stress, such as relaxation exercises or lifestyle changes.
- Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, or prescription pain relievers may be recommended to manage inflammation and reduce pain.
- Surgical Options (in rare cases): In severe cases where other treatments are ineffective, surgery may be required to correct the dysfunction.
How We Diagnose TMJ/TMD
During your appointment, we will conduct a thorough examination of your jaw, mouth, and teeth to assess your symptoms and determine if you have TMD. This may include:
- Palpation of the Jaw Joint: Feeling for tenderness or abnormalities in the TMJ area.
- Range of Motion Assessment: Testing your ability to open and close your mouth comfortably.
- X-rays or Imaging: Taking images of your jaw joint to check for signs of damage, misalignment, or arthritis.
Find Relief from TMJ/TMD Pain
Living with TMJ-related pain can affect your quality of life, but with the right treatment plan, you can find relief and regain your normal function. At Preston Meadow Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing customized, compassionate care to help you manage TMD and live comfortably.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your TMJ treatment options.
