TMJ Treatment: An Overview
If you suffer from persistent jaw pain, you may have a TMJ disorder or an issue with the temporomandibular joint of your jaw. Symptoms of TMJ disorders include jaw pain in addition to earaches, headaches, or a popping or clicking noise when chewing or speaking. There are many options for TMJ treatment in Laurel, MD if are suffering. At Laurel Smiles Dental Care, we offer restorative dental treatment options for TMJ disorders. We understand how debilitating and distracting issues with your jawbone can be.
Diagnosing TMJ
Your dentist is likely to diagnose TMJ during a routine dental checkup. When you come in for your regular visit, we perform a thorough oral examination to ensure everything works as it should. If you’re having any issues with pain, jaw function, or popping and clicking of the jaw joint, let us know. That alerts us to examine the jaw extra thoroughly, with the possibility of a TMJ disorder already on the mind.
We start with the dentist doing an exam to determine the function of your jaw joint. The dentist will press on areas of the face to see if you have any areas that stand out with pain. We’ll observe the range of motion and how the jaw tracks when you open and close your mouth. The dentist puts their hands where the jaw joint comes together to feel when you open and close your mouth. We can feel if the jaw is tracking smoothly or if there are catches or snags.
We’ll use dental imaging technology to get a better look at the structures of your jaw. Detailed digital imagery helps us see exactly what the problem is with the jaw joint. Every case is different, and we want to ensure our treatment plan is the best option for your specific needs.
TMJ Treatment in Laurel, MD
A variety of reasons can cause TMJ disorders. Our staff works with you to evaluate the current condition of your smile to determine what is causing your jaw pain. Whether you grind your teeth at night or struggle with a misaligned bite, we have dental solutions for you to restore your peace of mind.
What causes TMJ disorder?
A variety of reasons can cause TMJ disorders. If you grind your teeth, you will likely develop a TMJ disorder because of the excess pressure on your jawbone. Additionally, if you are missing a tooth or have a misaligned bite, you can also develop a TMJ disorder. This is because your mouth muscles must work extra hard chewing or speaking. Any additional facial muscle strain can cause a TMJ disorder.
How can a TMJ disorder be treated?
The cause of your TMJ disorder will largely affect how your treatment plan. If you show signs of teeth grinding, we may suggest a custom night guard to help prevent it from happening. Additionally, a night guard can help to hold your jaw in a better resting position and relieve pressure from your jawbone while you sleep.
If your bite pattern is the source of your TMJ, our dentist can recommend tooth replacement or orthodontic treatment plans to help with this issue. Oral surgery can also be an option for our most extreme cases of TMJ disorder.
What happens if TMJ is left untreated?
If you do not seek treatment for your TMJ disorder, you might notice your symptoms improve and then return over time. Additionally, when symptoms return, they usually worsen over time. Finding the source of your TMJ disorder is crucial to avoid further pain or discomfort.
What can I do at home to relieve my jaw pain?
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines can be especially helpful in relieving jaw pain because they reduce swelling and pain all at once. Additionally, hold a warm or cool compress to your jawbone. You can also practice regular jaw exercises and facial muscle relaxing techniques to assist in working the added tension away from your temporomandibular joint. Consult your dentist about your jaw pain as soon as possible for a personalized treatment plan.
Schedule an Appointment
Eliminate your jaw pain and headaches today! Schedule an appointment with our compassionate team today by calling us at 301-200-1315 if you suspect you may be dealing with a TMJ disorder. You can also schedule an appointment online for TMJ treatment. Call us or Our staff looks forward to helping you alleviate your symptoms.