There are people who suffer from migraines, neck aches, clicking or popping jaws, or facial pain near the cheeks or ears may have TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) disease. These symptoms are most commonly related to your bite and or how your jaw fits together. TMJ is treated at our Eugene dentist office as we are trained in advanced general dental techniques.
Overview of TMJ Treatment
TMJ treatment is a specialized form of dental care that focuses on treating problems related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This joint connects the lower jaw to the skull and is responsible for the movement of the jaw. TMJ disorder (TMD) can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, clicking, and limited jaw movement.
Treatment for TMJ disorder typically includes a combination of lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and medications. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to correct the underlying cause of the disorder.
Our team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. We strive to provide the highest quality care and to ensure that you receive the best possible outcome from your TMJ treatment.
Types of TMJ Treatments
We provide a range of treatments to help alleviate pain and improve the quality of life for our patients. We offer a variety of treatments to help reduce pain and discomfort. These include lifestyle changes, physical therapy, medications, and dental appliances.
Lifestyle changes may include avoiding certain foods and activities that can aggravate the condition. Physical therapy can help reduce muscle tension and improve the range of motion of the jaw. Medications such as muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatories, and pain relievers can also help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Dental appliances, such as splints or mouthguards, can help reduce grinding and clenching of the teeth.
Benefits of TMJ Treatment
By receiving TMJ treatment, patients can enjoy a variety of benefits, including:
- Improved Comfort: TMJ treatment can help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with jaw joint dysfunction. Through various treatments, such as the use of mouth guards or splints, patients can enjoy improved comfort and better quality of life.
- Reduced Inflammation: TMJ treatment can help to reduce inflammation in the jaw joint, which can lead to improved overall health. By reducing inflammation, patients can enjoy a reduction in swelling and pain, as well as improved joint mobility.
- Improved Jaw Function: TMJ treatment can help to improve the function of the jaw joint, which can lead to improved chewing and speaking abilities.
By improving the function of the jaw joint, patients can enjoy improved oral health and a better overall quality of life.
Causes of TMJ Disorders
The exact cause of TMJ disorders is unknown, but there are several factors that can contribute to the development of the condition.
The most common cause of TMJ disorder is bruxism, which is the grinding or clenching of the teeth. This can place excessive force on the jaw joint, leading to inflammation and pain. Other causes of TMJ disorder include arthritis, trauma to the jaw, misalignment of the jaw, and even stress. Stress can cause the muscles of the face to become tense, which can lead to TMJ pain.
Treatment may include the use of a night guard to prevent teeth grinding, physical therapy to relax the jaw muscles, and medications to reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the alignment of the jaw. With proper diagnosis and treatment, TMJ disorder can be managed and the patient can experience relief from their symptoms.
Book Your Appointment Today!
Take the first step towards TMJ Treatment with Wellness Centered Dentistry in Eugene, OR. Call us today at (541) 868-2008 or click here to book your appointment.
