Jaw pain and facial soreness are two of the most distracting and debilitating dental concerns that we treat in our Towson, MD dental office. Often associated with TMJ disorders, jaw pain can be caused by a variety of issues within your smile. Most commonly we find that patients who hold their stress in the jawbone throughout the day are more likely to do so in their sleep as well.
Additionally, patients with a history of teeth grinding are more at risk. This places excessive tension on your jaw joints and causes inflammation which leads to pain and discomfort. By addressing this issue with oral appliance therapy, Dr. Ousborne and Dr. Esterson have helped many patients in our community manage their TMJ symptoms and restore their overall dental health.
What is TMJ?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. This crucial joint is on either side of the head, just in front of the ears. At this spot, the jawbone connects to the skull.
The TMJ allows the jaw to move up and down, side to side, and forward and backward. These actions are what allow us to chew food, talk, and yawn. The TMJ is a complex joint that consists of muscles, ligaments, and a disc that helps cushion the movements of the jaw.
What is TMJ Disorder?
Sometimes, issues with the TMJ can develop. TMJ disorder, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is caused by a variety of factors. Teet grinding, genetics, injury, tooth misalignment, or strain can all lead to inflammation, muscle tightness, and joint dysfunction.
People with TMJ disorder often have problems speaking, opening their mouth, yawning, and eating. They may feel pain in their jaw, face, or neck. Popping noises when moving the jaw are also common.
Getting a Diagnosis for your TMJ Disorder
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder can cause problems in your jaw and face. Some common symptoms include pain when you chew or talk, headaches, clicking or popping noises when you open your mouth, and trouble opening or closing your mouth. You might also feel like your jaw is stuck or locked in place.
If you think you might have TMJ disorder, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Dr. Ousborne or Dr. Esterson can check your jaw and discuss your symptoms to see if you have it. They might also take X-rays or do other tests to get a better look at your jaw.
Seeking a diagnosis for TMJ disorder will help you find the best treatment. Your dentist will suggest the best treatment plan. We offer many treatments, such as nightguards, ways to align your bite, and restorative treatments to fix any tooth damage.
You can also do exercises to strengthen your jaw and take pain medication. In severe cases, we may suggest you go to physical therapy. If you are experiencing any signs of TMJ, do not wait to get it checked out. Fixing any jaw issues is vital to your dental and overall health.
TMJ Treatment in Towson, MD
Dr. Ousborne and Dr. Esterson help many patients manage their jaw pain with our TMJ treatment plans. Our TMJ treatment plans often include the use of a nightguard that holds the jawbone in a healthier resting position as you sleep. This reduces the amount of tension surrounding your jaw joints throughout the day. We can also treat TMJ disorders by aligning teeth and
What is a Nightguard?
A custom nightguard is a small, plastic device you put in your mouth while sleeping. It helps keep your jaw in the correct position and stops you from grinding your teeth. When you wear it consistently, it can help reduce the pain and clicking in your jaw.
When you wear a TMJ mouthpiece, it stops your jaw from moving too much while you sleep. Your jaw muscles get a chance to relax and heal. A nightguard also stops your teeth from touching each other, which can cause severe teeth wear and tear.
Overall, a custom nightguard is a simple but effective way to treat a TMJ disorder. It helps your jaw muscles relax and can reduce pain and clicking in your jaw. If you think you have a TMJ disorder, talk to your dentist about getting a mouthpiece to help treat it.
TMJ Treatment FAQs
Our team is here to answer any questions you might have about jaw pain or TMJ treatment options. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions:
What are the symptoms of TMJ disorders?
TMJ disorders are often associated with jawbone pain around the essential joints that you use every day to chew and speak. Additional symptoms include tension headaches, earaches, facial soreness, neck pain, and shoulder pain. You should report experiencing any of these symptoms to your dentist at your next appointment.
What are the benefits of oral appliance therapy?
Oral appliance therapy, or the use of a nightguard, is an inexpensive yet highly effective method of treating mild to moderate TMJ disorders. It also helps to prevent symptoms caused by Bruxism, or teeth grinding. The nightguard can often allow patients to avoid extreme dental damages which will often require more expensive restorations. Additionally, the nightguard is simple to use and easy to maintain.
How can I reduce my jaw pain at home?
Beyond scheduling an appointment with your dentist to discuss professional options, practicing mindfulness at home can often help patients reduce the occurrence of their jaw pain. Leave yourself reminders around your home and workspace to unclench your jaw and relax your facial muscles. Avoid excessively chewy foods when experiencing jaw pain. Practice anti-anxiety breathing methods before bed to reduce stress while you sleep.
How effective are nightguards for TMJ?
Nightguards are very effective in managing TMJ disorders. They offer a protective barrier for your teeth that will reduce the impact of grinding or clenching. This eases the strain on your jaw joints, provides relief from pain, and prevents further damage. Getting a nightguard is a simple yet powerful tool to improve your TMJ symptoms and overall jaw health.
Can TMJ disorders become chronic?
It is possible for your TMJ disorder to become chronic if you do not treat is. Over time, the constant strain on your jaw joints can lead to persistent pain and discomfort. It’s important to address TMJ issues early on to prevent them from becoming long-term problems. With proper treatment and care, you can manage and reduce TMJ symptoms effectively.
What are the risks of leaving TMJ untreated?
Leaving TMJ untreated can lead to several risks and complications. Over time, the constant strain on your jaw joints may result in chronic pain, difficulty chewing, and even changes in your bite. It can also cause headaches, earaches, and facial pain. With an early diagnosis and the right treatment, you can prevent these issues and maintain a healthy jaw.
What are the main causes of TMJ disorders?
There are many causes of TMJ disorders. However, the most common causes include teeth grinding or clenching, injuries to the jaw, arthritis, or stress and anxiety. Sometimes, it may be hard for your dentist to find the exact cause, but these factors often contribute to the development of TMJ issues. Understanding the cause is key to finding the right treatment.
What are the main symptoms of TMJ?
The main symptoms of TMJ disorders include pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, or neck. It is also common experience clicking or popping sounds when moving your jaw, difficulty chewing, or lock jaw. Additionally, headaches, earaches, and dizziness can sometimes be associated with TMJ issues. These symptoms can vary in intensity and frequency.
Schedule An Appointment to Receive TMJ Treatment in Towson, MD
Do you suffer from a TMJ disorder? Are you suspicious that you’ve been experiencing the symptoms? Schedule an appointment with the dental professionals of Dental Excellence. Our practice has been providing comprehensive dental care for patients in the Towson area for over 40 years. We will gladly evaluate your smile and come up with a plan to restore your dental health and peace of mind.