Do I Need TMJ Therapy?

Do you find yourself with pain in your jaw when eating or yawning? If so, you may have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. With so many factors that play a part in TMJ problems, it’s important to see an experienced professional to properly diagnose the dysfunction and provide a treatment plan to combat associated pain. At Lake Dental Clinic, our dentists provide the treatment you need to relieve your pain and effectively treat day-to-day jaw joint pain.

What is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder (TMD) is characterized by severe pain associated with dysfunction of the muscles and tissues that connect the jaw to the skull and facilitate movement. This joint interacts with parts of bones that are covered with cartilage and is separated by a small shock-absorbing disk. The condition can be caused by genetic predispositions to trauma or stress. If you happen to have a misaligned bite, this may also trigger TMD.

Signs and symptoms of TMD include:

- Severe pain and discomfort in the jaw
- Tenderness in the face, jaw joint, neck, and shoulders
- Discomfort or difficulty chewing and speaking
- Locked jaw, making it difficult to close or open your mouth
- Clicking sounds or a grating sensation when opening your mouth. 

Bite placement is a significant part in TMD diagnosis. Signs of bruxism, or consistent grinding of teeth, or a misaligned bite that relates to the erosion of teeth, are contributors to TMD as well.

Diagnosing TMJ Problems

Our dentist completes an in-depth dental examination and reviews your medical history. An X-ray, MRI, or CT scan may be necessary to see the structures of your jaw and determine the severity of the dysfunction. For severe cases, a TMJ Arthroscopy may be suggested to properly view the joint area. This minimally invasive surgery is completed by an oral surgeon, who will insert a thin tube into the joint space, following with a small camera to view and inspect the area. It can also be used to inject anti-inflammatory medicine, re-position the disk, and tighten the joint to limit movement.
You may have TMD due to a number of factors such as, rheumatoid arthritis, the erosion of the shock-absorbing disk, or trauma to the jaw.

No matter which method of diagnosis, it’s important to actively seek ways to alleviate pain until you can visit an experienced doctor or dentist for a proper treatment plan.

Treatments for TMD 

Treatments for jaw joint problems range from at-home treatments, such as simple jaw stretches used in conjunction with a heat or ice pack. Changing your diet by adding softer foods can make it easier for you to chew. If you find yourself with slight pain, take recommended amount of ibuprofen or naproxen.

Stabilization splints or bite guards can also be used to stabilize the jaw and prevent grinding or clenching the teeth. By pulling the law jaw forward, these appliances relieve jaw pain, tension, and tightness, allowing muscles to relax. Our dentists can have these fabricated and customized to your jaw as part of your TMD treatment plan.

If you’ve experienced jaw pain or clicking and popping jaw joints, contact Lake Dental Clinic today for a professional diagnosis. We provide TMD treatment and create stabilization splints to relieve painful symptoms of TMD. Contact us today for a consultation!