The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is the joint that acts like a sliding hinge because it connects your jawbone to your skull. This joint is present on both sides of your jaw and is responsible for mouth movement. TMJ disorder, or TMD, is a catch-all term for various potential issues affecting the jaw joint, face muscles, neck, and facial nerves.
This bite disorder can cause pain in the jaw joints and the surrounding muscles for some people. TMJ disorders can cause pain in the ear and face, headaches, difficulty chewing or swallowing food, and limited range of motion in the mouth. They can also be painful for people who grind their teeth at night.
A number of problems can cause TMJ disorders, including injury to the joint, arthritis, or misalignment of the teeth and jaw. Coastal Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry provides TMJ disorder treatment near Chesapeake, VA. Learn more about this dental problem and your treatment options below.
The Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
Symptoms of TMD will be different for every patient. Using the T-Scan digital bite analysis system, they will be able to analyze your bite and quickly diagnose a TMJ disorder or bite problem. We recommend scheduling an appointment with Dr. Sinclair and Dr. Reichley if you suffer from any of the following symptoms.
Common symptoms of TMJ disorder include the following:
- Frequent headaches or migraine headaches
- Shoulder, neck, facial, or jaw pain
- Clicking or popping when opening or closing the jaw
- Locked jaw or limited mobility in the jaw joint
- Teeth clenching, teeth grinding, often accompanied by worn, chipped, or broken teeth
- Pain around the ears or earaches
- Teeth grinding, or bruxism
Orthodontics for TMJ Issues can Support Long-term Oral Health
The jaw joint, or TMJ, is a complex structure that provides stability for the lower jaw. It also coordinates the movements of the mouth and head. The temporomandibular joint is a complex joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull.
If you have problems with your TMJ, such as pain or a clicking sound when you open or close your mouth, it may be time to see a dentist. Orthodontics can help with many types of TMJ disorder problems. With the advances in orthodontics, it is now possible to correct jaw problems that have been present for years. The following are some of the issues that our dental office can correct using orthodontic treatments:
- A prognathic or narrow-jawed appearance.
- A tooth cross-bite, where the teeth meet.
- Dental crowding, or too many teeth on a single jaw.
- Dental deviation, in which one tooth erupts out of the gum line and hits another tooth.
- Pain in the face, neck, and head.
- Trouble chewing food.
- Trouble swallowing food.
Invisalign for TMJ/TMD Issues
Virginia Beach cosmetic dentist, Dr. Cappy Sinclair provides Invisalign. No one will know that you are wearing braces while you are using Invisalign aligners. They fit snugly on your teeth and help them shift. They will gradually align your teeth and restore balance to your bite.
One of the added benefits of using Invisalign is the ability to thoroughly clean your teeth and gums because they are removable. Orthodontic treatment straightens teeth and can also restore balance to the bite. Treatment with braces can adequately aligning your teeth and allow the jaw to function without unnecessarily stressing it. This can alleviate the effects of a bite disorder such as TMJ and keep your smile strong and healthy for the long run!
TMJ Treatment FAQs
TMJ is a complicated condition that affects the jaw, ligaments, muscles, and bones that make up the jaw joint. Treatment for TMJ can range from conservative measures such as lifestyle and diet modifications to more invasive alternatives such as surgery. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about TMJ treatment.
What are the most common treatments for TMJ?
The most common treatments for TMJ are lifestyle modifications such as avoiding hard or chewy food, avoiding gum, avoiding stress, and applying heat or ice to the jaw. Other conservative treatments may include physical therapy, dental splints, and oral medications. Surgery is an option in more severe cases.
Are there any natural remedies for TMJ?
Yes, there are a number of natural treatments that may help to alleviate symptoms of TMJ. These may include homeopathic remedies, relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation, and some dietary changes. You should always talk to your doctor before trying any of these methods to ensure that they are appropriate for you.
How long does it typically take to see results from TMJ treatments?
The length of time it takes for TMJ treatments to provide relief depends on the severity of the disorder and the individual’s response to treatment. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to several months.
Are there any surgical treatments for TMJ?
We typically only recommend surgery for those who have severe cases of TMJ that have not responded to more conservative treatment options. The type of surgery depends on the condition of the joints, but can include jaw alignment, jaw joint reconstruction, or joint replacement.
How much does TMJ treatment typically cost?
The cost of TMJ treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment. Generally, you can do conservative treatments such as lifestyle and diet modifications with minimal cost. Medications and physical therapy may cost more, while surgery may cost the most.
If you have questions about how Dr. Sinclair can enhance your smile and alleviate your TMJ issues, schedule a consultation online, or give us a call today. With the right treatment, you can manage TMJ issues effectively.