As expert dentists, Dr. William Ferguson and Dr. William R. Jennings understand how the jaw functions. They offer treatment for problems dealing with the jaw, not just the teeth and gums. The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull. It is located on both sides of your head in front of the ears.
Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD, is a term that refers to a problem that affects the joints, muscles, and nerves in and around the jaw. If you suffer from TMD, Stone Creek Dental offers TMJ treatment in Denton, TX to help you find relief from this painful condition.
What Causes TMJ Pain?
There are several common causes of TMD and TMJ pain. As a dentist’s office, one of the main causes we see is jaw misalignment. When the jaw joint is not properly aligned, it puts too much strain on the surrounding muscles and tissues, leading to pain and discomfort. This misalignment can result from factors such as teeth grinding, crooked teeth, missing teeth, or even trauma to the jaw.
Another common cause of TMD is teeth grinding or bruxism and jaw clenching. Many of our patients grind their teeth unconsciously, especially at night when they are sleeping. When you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, this puts significant stress on the jaw joint. Additionally, stress and anxiety can contribute to teeth grinding, further exacerbating TMJ symptoms.
While these are the most common causes of TMJ disorder, there many other reasons why TMD can develop. Each patient’s experience will be unique.
Common TMJ Symptoms to Lookout For
There are many symptoms of TMJ disorder and they can vary greatly from patient to patient. TMJ symptoms often mask themselves or are similar to those of other medical conditions, making diagnosis extremely difficult. Some of the more common signs or symptoms include:
- Jaw pain
- Difficulty chewing
- Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
- Frequent headaches
- Ear pain
- Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
- Facial pain
- Lockjaw
- Uncomfortable bite
- Swelling on the sides of the face
- Toothaches
- Dizziness
The Importance of Seeking TMJ Treatment
If you are suffering from the signs and symptoms of TMD, you should be evaluated by Dr. Ferguson or Dr. Jennings. Getting the proper treatment will help alleviate your pain and improve your overall well-being. TMJ pain can be debilitating, affecting your ability to speak, eat, and sleep.
Ignoring the signs can even lead to permanent damage to the joint. The condition may get worse and, without treatment, lead to irreversible damage to your jaw joint and surrounding tissues.
TMJ Treatment in Denton, TX
Dr. Ferguson or Dr. Jennings offers several treatment options for TMJ disorder. The treatment you require will depend on the severity of your condition, the underlying cause, and any damage that it led to.
TMJ Splint
One of the common treatment approaches used by dentists for TMJ is the use of a TMJ splint. A TMJ splint is a custom-made oral appliance that helps to reposition the jaw and alleviate strain on the joint. It is typically worn during sleep and works by providing support and stability to the jaw, promoting proper alignment, and reducing pain.
Invisalign
In more severe cases of TMJ, we may recommend orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign. Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces that uses clear aligners to gradually shift the teeth into proper alignment. By correcting any bite issues or misalignments, Invisalign can help alleviate TMJ symptoms and improve overall jaw function.
Nightguard
A nightguard is a common oral appliance that dentists use to protect teeth during sleep. If your TMD is caused by teeth grinding, this custom mouthguard will protect your teeth and jaw at night when you are involuntarily grinding. They are custom-made to fit snuggly in your mouth. The goal is to hold your jaw in the proper position to prevent grinding and take tension off your jaw joints.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ/TMD
How do you diagnose TMJ disorder?
Your dentist can diagnose TMJ disorder. Your dentist or staff member will start by asking about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they will examine your jaw and listen for clicks or pops when you move it. Sometimes, we take X-rays to see the bones or use other imaging tests. This helps us understand if there’s a problem with the jaw joint or muscles around it.
Will TMD go away on its own?
TMJ can get better with time. Resting your jaw, eating soft foods, and using heat or ice packs can help. Sometimes, stress can make it worse. However, in most cases, it is best to see your dentist to help you figure out the best treatment. Everyone is different, so what works for one person may not work for another.
What will happen if I ignore my TMJ pain?
Ignoring your TMJ pain can make it worse over time and cause more problems with your jaw and teeth. Untreated TMD can lead to difficulty chewing, headaches, earaches, and trouble opening and closing your mouth. You should see your dentist or doctor for help so they can give you the proper treatment to feel better and prevent any further pain or damage.
Does TMJ cause ear pain or headaches?
TMJ can cause ear pain and headaches. TMJ is a problem with the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. When this joint is not working right, it can lead to pain in your ears and headaches. This can happen because the joint is close to your ears and head. If you have these symptoms, you should schedule an appointment to see which TMJ treatment will work best for you.
Can TMJ be treated without surgery?
Yes, your dentist can treat your TMD without surgery. Many people find relief from symptoms like jaw pain and clicking through non-surgical options like physical therapy, exercises, lifestyle changes, and wearing a unique mouth piece. Your dentist can help you find the best options to help you find some relief. However, if you suffer from a severe case of TMD, you may need surgery. Surgery on your jaw is often a last resort after other treatments fail.
How effective are night guards?
Night guards can be helpful for people with TMJ by providing cushioning and preventing teeth grinding during sleep. They can help reduce jaw pain and muscle tension. However, night guards may not work for everyone, and it’s vital to consult your dentist to see if they are the right treatment for you. Some people find relief with night guards, while others may need additional treatments.
Can dental work make TMD worse?
Dental work can sometimes make TMJ worse. Some treatments like crowns, bridges, or fillings can trigger TMJ pain in some people. However, your dentist will ensure the restoration fits properly so it will not affect your bite. Your dentist can adjust the restoration if you notice any jaw pain.
The dentist may suggest dental work to help with TMD for some people. If you suffer from malocclusion, we can treat it with various treatments to align your smile. These treatments can actually help you find relief from your TMJ symptoms.
Schedule a Consultation for TMJ Treatment in Denton, TX
Seeking effective TMJ treatment in Denton, TX from Stone Creek Dental can help you manage your pain and symptoms. Don’t let TMJ control your life! Take the necessary steps to regain control and improve your quality of life today. If you suspect you have TMJ disorder, contact us at 940-329-4605 or request an appointment online by filling out the form.