The Impact of TMJ Disorder
Your jaw joints could suffer excessive strain due to factors like tooth loss, injury to the jaw or the face, malocclusion, or complications with the growth of the jaw or certain oral functions. The eruption of your teeth, or the arrival of wisdom teeth, could also lead to stress on these joints. If you suffer from bruxism, in which you grind your teeth on a regular basis at night, this could also be a factor. As part of your treatment, our team will conduct a detailed examination with advanced digital imaging systems to assess the cause and severity of your TMJ disorder, so we know what’s behind your TMD symptoms.
Common Warning Signs
Potential warning signs vary, and could include headaches or migraines during the day, or pain in your jaw or face. You could experience discomfort in your neck and shoulders, and tooth sensitivity and toothaches could occur as well, especially if you grind or clench your teeth. Untreated TMJ disorder could lead to bruxism, and likewise, untreated bruxism could be due TMD symptoms. When you experience one or more of these common warning signs then please reach out to our team today. We want to offer a detailed examination and diagnosis, so we can use our neuromuscular dentistry services to bring relief and prevent further complications, such as difficulty opening and closing your jaw.
Neuromuscular Dentistry
Once we have diagnosed the cause and assessed the severity, we can move forward with treatment options. In many cases, we will take detailed digital images and measurements and employ them to create a unique neuromuscular device, an oral appliance that is worn as you sleep at night or for specific times during the day. These appliances fit comfortably and actually shift the position of your jaw to ease strain and reduce stress. You avoid TMD-related symptoms, and if you also grind or clench your teeth, this could provide a barrier to avoid further damage to your smile.
If you have any questions about diagnosing and treating the causes of your TMJ disorder, or about our approach to oral appliance therapy, then contact our team today to learn more.
Talk To Your Gainesville, TX Dentist About Easing TMJ Dysfunction
Our team can address the painful symptoms that arise following pressure and strain your TMJs. If you would like to find out more or schedule a visit, call our Gainesville, TX dental office at (940) 668-9000.