Do you suffer from frequent jaw pain, tension headaches, and earaches? If so, you may be suffering from something known as a TMJ disorder. A TMJ disorder occurs when the temporomandibular joint of your jaw becomes inflamed or injured. Often caused by underlying dental concerns, your dentist should be able to help you pinpoint the source of your discomfort and treat it effectively. At TotallySmiles, our doctors have helped hundreds of patients restore their jaw health and their peace of mind with personalized TMJ treatment plans. Learn more about how we help patients with TMJ disorders below:
TMJ Treatment in Gaithersburg, MD
Dr. Steven Anolik and Dr. Corey Anolik are experienced restorative dentists in Gaithersburg, MD. They have helped many patients with TMJ disorders resolve their jaw pain from the source. By thoroughly evaluating your dental structures and bite pattern, they will be able to offer you a treatment plan tailored specifically for you and your needs.
TMJ disorders present with a variety of symptoms, including:
- Worn-down teeth
- Clicking or popping in your jaw
- Frequent headaches
- Frequent earaches
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Locking of the jaw
What are the causes of TMJ disorders?
Many patients with a history of teeth grinding may develop a TMJ disorder. This is because the consistent additional pressure being applied to your jawbone inflames your jaw joints and causes pain over time. With patients who have a history of teeth grinding, we often recommend oral appliance therapy. Oral appliance therapy is when we provide an oral appliance, similar to a mouthguard, which is designed custom to your own soft tissues. This ensures a comfortable and secure fit. The appliance should be worn while you sleep, to relieve the pressure you may be placing on your jaw joints.
Other causes of TMJ disorders include issues with your bite pattern. If you are missing teeth or have crooked teeth, it may be necessary to include other restorative services in your treatment plan. For patients with missing teeth, we often suggest one of our tooth replacement options to help rebalance your bite pattern and relieve any pressure caused by your remaining teeth making up for the lost work of the missing tooth. For patients with crooked teeth, we can recommend orthodontic treatment options to better align your teeth for improved functionality and less strain on your facial muscles when talking or chewing.
Schedule An Appointment
Do you think you are suffering from a TMJ disorder? Schedule an appointment with our experienced restorative dentists at TotallySmiles. We look forward to seeing you soon and helping you resolve your jaw pain and other associated symptoms.