TMJ Treatment

What is TMJ?

TMJ refers to a group of conditions that cause persistent jaw and facial pain. Everyone has two TMJ joints. Each joint attaches your jaw to your skull and assists with chewing, biting, and speaking. 

Over the years, your TMJ joints can become irritated or inflamed. Experts aren’t entirely sure why this is, but it’s thought that several factors play a role, including genetics, previous jaw injuries, or chronic conditions like arthritis. You’re also more likely to experience TMJ if you grind your teeth or clench your jaws during sleep.

Most TMJ pain responds to conservative at-home treatments like rest and over-the-counter pain medication. If your jaw pain persists or affects your quality of life, contact Pleasant Family Dentistry right away.

What are the symptoms of TMJ?

Common symptoms of TMJ include:

• Jaw pain and tenderness
• Aching in or around the ears
• Facial pain 
• Difficulty chewing

As TMJ gets worse, you might also notice that your mouth makes a popping or clicking sound when you open and close it.

What is TMJ treatment?

TMJ treatment refers to several different procedures that help manage TMJ-related pain. Early diagnosis and intervention can ease uncomfortable symptoms and prevent more serious complications from occurring. 

What are the types of TMJ treatment?

Pleasant Family Dentistry offers several types of TMJ treatment:

Botox injections

Botox is an injectable neuromodulator made by Allergan. It’s typically used to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, crow’s feet, and fine lines, but it can also relieve muscle tension and stiffness caused by TMJ. Pleasant Family Dentistry has a Botox nurse on staff who administers injections.

Mouthguards

If you have a tendency to grind your teeth or clench your jaws, your dentist might recommend a custom mouthguard. A mouthguard is an oral appliance made of plastic that prevents your teeth from rubbing up against each other. A mouthguard’s unique structure takes the pressure off your jaws and surrounding muscles, limiting pain and discomfort.

Night guards

If you grind your teeth or clench your jaws during sleep, consider a night guard. A night guard is very similar to a mouthguard. The only real difference is that you wear it during sleep. To ensure your night guard fits properly, your dentist takes impressions and sends them to a laboratory. The laboratory uses your measurements to develop a custom mouthpiece.

What type of TMJ treatment might benefit me?

To determine the type of TMJ treatment that most benefits you, Pleasant Family Dentistry conducts an oral exam, reviews your dental health history, and asks about your lifestyle and symptoms. After gathering this information and taking oral X-rays, your dentist can make recommendations that align with your needs.

Don’t wait to receive TMJ treatment at Pleasant Family Dentistry. Call the office, or request a consultation online today.