RELIEVE CHRONIC JAW PAIN WITH DEDICATED TMJ THERAPY

Your temporomandibular joints (commonly referred to as the TMJ) may be a small part of the body, but the responsibility they have is enormous – they connect your lower jaw to your skull, essentially helping you perform vital actions like chewing and speaking. Of course, this also means that even the slightest problem can throw the entire system off balance, resulting in severe symptoms and even debilitating discomfort. Thankfully, Dr. Ellis offers TMJ-related therapy for patients who are desperately in need of relief. Please contact Love Your Smile Dentistry to schedule your first appointment! We welcome new patients!

Do I Have TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder is a very complex condition that can be caused by several different factors, including jaw injuries, bruxism (teeth grinding), and arthritis. Because of this, symptoms can be varied from case to case. However, there are some common indications that patients can look out for, including the following:

• Constant clicking and popping in the jaw joints
• Excessive pain that seems to be focused in the jaw, face, or ears
• Constant, severe headaches
• Difficulty with chewing or comfortably opening and closing the mouth

How Do You Treat TMJ Disorder?

If your case of TMJ disorder is caused by a misaligned or imbalanced bite, occlusal (bite) adjustment can do wonders when it comes to restoring harmony. We’ll alter or rebuild certain teeth with the help of restorative dentistry so that your bottom and top arches can finally meet as they’re supposed to, relieving localized pain.

Another popular method for treating TMJ-related pain is the diligent use of an occlusal splint. These appliances are crafted so that they complement each patient’s unique bite, and they’re ideal for patients who suffer from unconscious bruxism. By wearing the splint throughout the night, patients can comfortably reposition their jaw’s resting point and relieve painful muscle fatigue in the process. We may also instruct patients to wear their occlusal splint during the day, but rest assured that your appliance will allow you to breathe, speak, and drink without issue. Over time, many patients achieve long-term improvements with this method!

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, please let our team at Love Your Smile Dentistry know right away. Dr. Ellis will be happy to perform a comprehensive assessment of your condition and help you determine the best course of action regarding your diagnosis.