Comprehensive Treatment Options
Relief from TMJ Pain
For a variety of reason your temporomandibular joint – frequently called TMJ – may cause you pain. When this occurs it is referred to as TMJ disorder or dysfunction. You may have seen or heard this referred to as TMD.
What Exactly Is My TMJ?
Your temporomandibular joint is where the part of your skull called the temporal bone meets your mandible. This is the lower jawbone that holds all your bottom teeth in place. Your TMJ allows you to move your jaw side to side as well as up and down.
Why Is My TMJ Causing Me Pain?
There are many different theories as to why your TMJ may be causing you pain. Genetics, arthritis, stress, and injuries are some of the contributing factors that can cause problems with your TMJ and result in TMD.
Genetics
Understanding the role of genetics in TMD
Some people may be predisposed to TMD. Though both men and women are diagnosed as having TMD, it has been found to be diagnosed more frequently in women than men. Your bone structure and joints may also be contributing factors to TMD.
Arthritis
Arthritis and its impact on TMD
Over time, the inside of your temporomandibular joint may experience some wear. This might be due to the type of arthritis called osteoarthritis. Usually, this kind of arthritis affects older individuals more than younger ones. Other types of arthritic inflammation in your TMJ may be due to gout or rheumatoid arthritis.
Stress
How stress contributes to TMD
Straining and tightening your jaw and facial muscles can put pressure on your TMJ and cause TMD. You may be unconsciously holding stress in your jaw and face that can also lead to teeth clenching or grinding.
Clenching Or Grinding
Addressing the effects of teeth clenching and grinding
Some people clench or grind their teeth throughout the day. It can become such a habit that it might go virtually unnoticed. You may even be clenching or grinding your teeth while you sleep without knowing it.
Injuries
The link between injuries and TMD
A dislocation of the jaw can result in TMD. Some studies claim other traumas – like a sudden blow – may cause TMD as well. This would involve some sort of displacement or stress that results in TMD symptoms.
How Can I Relieve The Pain Caused By TMD?
Luckily, today there are many different options for treating all kinds of TMD. There are plenty of noninvasive and very advanced options to help manage or eliminate your pain associated with TMD.
Diet
Fuel your body, ease your jaw
Switching to a diet of soft foods may alleviate some pain you are experiencing associated with TMD.
Hot/cold Treatments
Find relief through temperature
Depending on your situation and pain level, the dentist may recommend a hot/cold treatment routine to reduce pain.
Medication
Manage pain, ease tension
There are over the counter and prescription medications that the dentist may suggest you use to take care of your discomfort.
Stress Reduction
Relax your mind, ease your jaw
Massages, meditation, and stress reduction therapy may decrease the amount of pressure that is being placed on your TMJ and alleviate some pain.
Physical Therapy
Strengthen, stretch, and heal
Certain exercises may reduce your issues with your TMJ. It is important to consult a licensed professional before starting any therapy regime.
Night Guard
Protect your teeth, relieve your jaw
A night guard is worn on your upper and lower teeth to prevent them from touching. This can reduce the negative effects of clenching or grinding at night. If need be, you might be recommended to wear a dental guard during the day.
Dental Work
Correct alignment, alleviate pain
If missing, impaired, or misaligned teeth are causing uneven stress and pain the dentist or specialist may be able to use crowns, partial dentures, or braces to reduce the stress and pain. Placement of implants or other oral surgical procedures may also be done to relieve your discomfort.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Delivering the best possible treatments
Dental Arts Centre works closely with medical professionals in Oklahoma City and surrounding areas who specialize in TMD to deliver you the best treatments possible.
Book an Appointment Today
We invite you to join our dental family and experience the highest quality care available. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a healthy, beautiful smile.