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 your jaw’s temporomandibular joints (TMJ) become inflamed or injured. Often caused by underlying dental concerns, we can pinpoint the source of your discomfort and treat it effectively. Our office provides TMJ Treatment in Gaithersburg, MD.
At TotallySmiles, our doctors have helped hundreds of patients restore their jaw health and peace of mind with personalized TMJ treatment plans. Treating temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) can prevent tooth wear, jaw damage, and chronic pain. Learn more about how we help patients with TMJ disorders below:
Causes of TMJ Disorders
Many patients with a history of teeth grinding may develop a TMJ disorder. This is because the consistent additional pressure applied to your jawbone inflames your joints and causes pain over time. 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.
Signs of TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders present with a variety of symptoms, including:
- Worn-down teeth
- Clicking or popping in your jaw
- Chronic headaches
- Frequent earaches
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Locking of the jaw
- Pain biting and chewing
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 can offer you a treatment plan tailored specifically for you and your needs.
We often recommend oral appliance therapy if you have a history of teeth grinding. Oral appliance therapy is when we provide an oral appliance, similar to a mouthguard, designed to be custom-made for your 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.
We often suggest one of our tooth replacement options for patients with missing teeth to help rebalance your bite pattern. Replacing missing teeth can 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. Fixing crooked teeth can better align your teeth for improved functionality. An even bite lessens the strain on your facial muscles when talking or chewing.
At-Home TMJ Treatment
In addition to dental care, lifestyle changes and at-home care are beneficial if you have TMD. If you have a TMJ flare-up, use warm compression. Heating pads or heat wraps relax the muscles to reduce pain and discomfort. Use heat on your jaw for fifteen minutes, three to four times daily.
Physical therapy is also effective if stress contributes to TMD. A tense back, shoulders, neck, and jaw muscles can worsen TMJ symptoms. A physical therapist can teach you how to move and relax these muscles and reduce tension. Physical therapists offer heat therapy, massages, and exercises to relax muscles in the upper body.
Small changes like jaw position can lessen jaw pain and reduce teeth clenching and grinding. To ensure your jaw is at rest, lightly place your tongue on the roof of your mouth behind your front teeth. You will notice that your teeth are apart slightly. This position reduces jaw tension and general tension in the lower face.
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.