Do you suffer from recurring jaw pain? Maybe your jaw clicks, pops, or grates when you open and close your mouth? No matter your symptoms, your dentist can provide you with long-term relief using the latest solutions in TMJ treatment. Dentists are experts in oral anatomy, allowing them to provide personalized treatments to improve jaw dysfunction and relieve pain.
What is a TMJ Disorder?
Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are located just in front of your ears, connecting your lower jaw to your skull. Various factors can cause the joints to function incorrectly, like a bad bite, previous injury, or arthritis. Inflammation within the joints can cause several symptoms, including:
- Jaw or facial pain
- Mouth locking in an open or closed position
- Clicking, popping, and grating when opening and closing the mouth
- Pain or ringing in the ears
- Neck or shoulder pain
- Headaches
Options to Treat TMJ Disorders
A dentist has extensive knowledge and training in TMJ functions and structures. Besides a visual examination, they may review X-rays and other images of your mouth to have a complete picture of your oral structures to determine the source of your discomfort. They’ll create a personalized treatment plan to restore normal jaw functions to improve your quality of life, which may include:
- Occlusal Splint: An occlusal splint is an oral appliance that’s worn while sleeping. It’s used for patients with TMJ disorders caused by bruxism. It creates a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth to absorb the pressure and friction of grinding and clenching.
- Equilibration Adjustment: TMJ caused by a poor bite can be corrected with an equilibration adjustment. Instead of using braces to move teeth, your TMJ specialist can modify their shape to create a better bite relationship.
- TENS Therapy: Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a special machine that delivers electrical currents to reduce pain and tension. It can provide quick pain relief.
- BOTOX: BOTOX doesn’t just treat wrinkles and fine lines. It can also relax muscles to stop jaw pain. Your results can last for many months for long-term relief.
With the right treatment, you won’t think twice before chomping down on a juicy hamburger or yawning. Your TMJ dentist has proven solutions to restore your quality of life.
About Dr. Robert C. Fromuth
Dr. Fromuth achieved his dental degree from the University of North Carolina and has completed additional training at the L.D. Pankey Institute. He is a proud member of the New Hampshire Dental Association, the Manchester Dental Society, and the American Dental Association. If you’re ready to stop your jaw pain, request an appointment through his website or call his office at (603) 931-4137.