The condition that is known as TMJ or TMD is one that affects the very largest joint in the head. This is the temporomandibular joint, and it is shortened into TMJ or TMD when it causes pain, and a range of other symptoms. As your preferred dentist in Springfield, MO Chesterfield Family Dental treats the condition and offers this brief TMJ treatment overview to explain the options available.
What Is TMJ?
Ask experts and most say they are unsure as to just why TMJ or TMD develops. They know it comes with some obvious signs and symptoms. These include
- Face, jaw, ear or neck pain
- Moments when the jaw locks open or shut or cannot move easily
- Problems chewing
- Sounds like popping and clicking when moving the jaws
- Chronic ringing in the ears
- The development of bruxism or tooth grinding
- New and impossible to explain wear on the teeth
Dental professionals understand that the pain and problems begin because the upper and lower jaws are not properly aligned, but most are unsure as to just why this begins or occurs. Fortunately, there are treatment options available.
Visit Our TMJ Dentist
While there is no “one size fits all” TMJ treatment overview, there are some shared steps in addressing the issue in those who suffer from it. You can learn more about the different approaches for your specific symptoms when you visit our TMJ dentist, but almost all patients will have a specialized night guard made to help them comfortably and safely hold their jaws in proper alignment throughout the night.
Our team will help you by assessing your symptoms and ensuring that it is not due to another issue altogether. If you are diagnosed with TMJ or already have a diagnosis when you get in touch, we will then consider the right aligner and then offer you a TMJ treatment overview that will help to realign your bite and end your pain or discomfort.
Don’t ignore the signs that you may be struggling with TMJ or TMD. It does come with the risk of uneven wear or even breaking of the teeth due to bruxism and a misaligned bite. Simple treatment will help.
Contact Our Brea Dentist Office for Your TMJ Treatment Overview
Should you have more questions about this uncomfortable and damaging condition, feel free to give us a call at our Springfield, MO office at 417-888-0771. You can also use our online contact form and one of our staff will get back to you promptly.