TMJ

Understanding Oral Health

Our TMJ treatment eases the jaw discomfort, tension headaches, and popping that can make eating and talking a chore. These symptoms often stem from strain on the joint that links your lower jaw to your skull.

Grinding, clenching, an uneven bite, stress, and arthritis are frequent culprits. Some people also notice ear pain, facial fatigue, or trouble opening wide.

Relief may come from a custom night splint, bite adjustments, exercises, or lifestyle changes. We’ll pinpoint the cause and build a plan that brings lasting comfort.

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What is TMJ Dysfunction?

These conditions interfere with normal jaw function, causing discomfort in the joint and the muscles that control movement. Commonly called TMD, short for temporomandibular disorders, they can be quite painful and lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms.

TMD AFFECTS ABOUT 5% OF ADULTS, AND MANY CASES GO AWAY ON THEIR OWN

NIH also notes that some cases become chronic, or long-lasting, so ongoing jaw pain is worth having checked.

“Many TMDs last only a short time and go away on their own”

National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, “TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders)”

TMD Symptoms

Common symptoms of TMD may include:

Facial swelling
Pain or tenderness in the jaw, extending to the ear, neck, and shoulders
Difficulty opening the mouth wide or discomfort when chewing
An audible “popping” or clicking sound in the jaw during chewing or talking
Lockjaw, where the jaw becomes stuck, either open or closed
Toothaches, headaches, dizziness, or ringing in the ears

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek treatment.

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What causes TMD?

The exact cause of TMD is often difficult to pinpoint, but several factors may contribute to the disorder, including:

Inflammation in the muscles and ligaments around the jaw attachments
Displacement of the jaw joint discs
Injury to the jaw, head, or neck
Teeth grinding or clenching, often due to stress
Arthritis
Fibromyalgia, a musculoskeletal disorder

Stress and misalignment are common culprits that can exacerbate TMD.

TMD Treatment

If you suspect that you are suffering from TMD, Desert Pearl Dentistry can conduct a thorough examination with X-rays to diagnose the condition.
For less severe cases, at-home treatments like over-the-counter pain relievers, heat or cold packs, and relaxation techniques can offer relief. However, for more severe cases, treatments may include:

Orthodontic care or dental restorations
Physical therapy for jaw exercises
Botox treatments to help relax jaw muscles (for TMJ-related pain)
Nightguards for teeth grinding and jaw clenching

Surgery is a rare option and only considered if other treatments have not provided relief.

Find Lasting Comfort With Our TMJ Treatment

Our TMJ treatment can help you eat, speak, and sleep more comfortably. We’ll target the source of your discomfort with a personalized plan. Book an evaluation with Desert Pearl Dentistry today.