TMJ disorders can have a significant impact on your quality of life, affecting your ability to perform daily actions such as eating, yawning or speaking with ease. Here at Park Central Dental, we provide treatments to manage this condition so you can enjoy a healthier and more comfortable life.
What is a TMJ Disorder?
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. This intricate joint allows you to open and close your mouth, chew, speak and yawn. When the TMJ is not functioning correctly, it can lead to various discomforts and challenges. TMD can arise from a variety of factors, including stress, teeth grinding, jaw injuries, arthritis and misaligned teeth or bite.
Common Signs of TMD
Recognizing the signs of TMD is crucial for early diagnosis and prompt treatment. Some common symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness, often localized in front of the ear.
- Clicking or popping sounds when you open or close your mouth.
- Difficulty in fully opening your mouth or jaw locking in place.
- Headaches, earaches or facial pain.
- Aching pain around the neck and shoulders.
- Pain while chewing or speaking.
- A sensation of ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
TMJ Treatment Options
Treatment for TMD can vary depending on the severity of the condition and its underlying causes. Here are some common TMJ treatment options:
- Lifestyle Modifications: Our dentists may recommend lifestyle changes like stress reduction techniques, dietary modifications, and avoiding habits like gum chewing or nail biting that can exacerbate TMD symptoms.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers and muscle relaxants may provide temporary relief from TMJ pain and muscle tension. In some cases, prescription medications or injections may be necessary.
- Dental Appliances: A night guard or splint can help protect your teeth from grinding and clenching, reducing stress on the TMJ.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises and manual therapy techniques can help improve jaw function, reduce muscle tension and alleviate pain.
- Bite Correction: In cases where misaligned teeth or an improper bite are contributing to TMD, orthodontic treatment or dental restorations may be recommended.
- Surgery: In severe cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgical intervention to repair or replace the TMJ may be considered.
Our dentists will examine your jaw and evaluate your bite to determine the severity of your TMJ disorder and provide you with a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs.
Schedule A Consultation
We welcome you to call us at 214-340-9696 for more information about TMJ treatment in Dallas, Texas, and to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mazin Nakhleh, Dr. Laura Fisher or Dr. Shohreh Sharifi.