TMJ Specialist

What is TMJ?

TMJ affects your jaw joints, which connect your upper and lower jawbones and act like sliding hinges. When left untreated, TMJ problems can cause pain, stiffness, or other unpleasant side effects. The experts at Wellness Dental Care offer an array of pain-relieving options for TMJ discomfort.

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorders?

Common signs and symptoms you may experience with TMJ disorders include:

• Aching facial pain
• Difficulty chewing
• Jaw tenderness
• Ear discomfort
• Pain with chewing
• Jaw joint locking
• Difficulty opening and closing your mouth
• Stiffness
• Decreased jaw joint range of motion 

If TMJ pain is severe, ongoing, or annoys you, treatment with Wellness Dental Care can give you the relief you deserve.

What are the risk factors for TMJ disorders?

Anyone can develop TMJ, but some factors increase your risk of developing it. Examples include:

• Arthritis
• Jaw injuries
• Teeth clenching and grinding
• Connective tissue diseases
• Genetics

Often, the cause of TMJ disorder isn’t entirely clear. At the first sign of a problem, see Wellness Dental Care specialists for an evaluation. 

How does my provider diagnose TMJ disorders?

To diagnose TMJ disorders and develop an effective treatment, Wellness Dental Care providers discuss your oral health history, medical history, and symptoms with you. They examine your jaw joint, evaluate your teeth for signs of grinding, and take dental X-rays if needed.

What are common treatments for TMJ pain?

Common treatments available at Wellness Dental Care that can diminish TMJ discomfort include:

Home remedies

Things you can do at home to reduce TMJ pain include using ice or heat packs, avoiding jaw overuse, stretching, massaging your jaw and surrounding tissues, and completing jaw-strengthening exercises. Minimize stress to reduce your risk of teeth clenching and grinding.

Physical therapy

Your dental provider can show you which jaw exercises to complete at home to reduce TMJ discomfort. 

Injections

Your specialist offers steroid and Botox® injections to reduce inflammation and muscle tightness associated with TMJ pain.

Oral appliances

Wearing oral appliances at night while you sleep can reduce clenching and grinding and repositions your jaw to reduce TMJ discomfort. 

If you suspect you have TMJ and desire pain relief, call the Wellness Dental Care office, or book an appointment online today.