TMJ treatment is designed to alleviate painful or uncomfortable symptoms that are typically associated with a TMJ disorder. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is essential to chewing and speaking comfortably. When this joint is damaged, a patient may experience various symptoms affecting their quality of life.
Although there is no singular cause for TMJ disorder, patients can develop this for a number of different reasons. Factors like trauma, injury, or teeth grinding can affect your risk of developing TMJ disorder. Undergoing the appropriate testing can help your dentist determine the underlying cause and create a treatment plan based on your needs.
Advanced Dental Health in Hunt Valley, MD provides comprehensive evaluations and testing for TMJ disorder patients. If you are experiencing any signs of this disorder, it is imperative that you schedule a consultation. Baltimore restorative dentist Dr. Ashley Izadi works with patients one-on-one to understand their needs and create a solution that is right for them.
Sign That You Have a TMJ Disorder
Do you wake up with headaches? Are you experiencing facial pain or tension?
These are an indication of a TMJ disorder. However, it is necessary to undergo the appropriate testing to rule out any other issues. During your evaluation, it is important to disclose any symptoms you may be experiencing so we can build a comprehensive plan to restore function and health to your jaw joint. The most common TMJ symptoms include:
- Reoccurring morning headaches
- Difficulty chewing or moving the jaw
- Worn down or damaged teeth
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- Teeth grinding and jaw clenching, especially when you sleep
- Earaches
- Jaw pain
- Frequent lockjaw
- Feelings of tension or pain in the face, neck, shoulders, and upper back
TMJ Treatment in Hunt Valley
The purpose of treatment is to ease your symptoms, prevent further damage, and repair existing damage. As highly trained restorative dentists, Dr. Izadi and Dr. Rafat take the time to evaluate dental health, understand your symptoms and concerns and build a comprehensive treatment plan based on your needs.
At Advanced Dental Health, we offer a full range of solutions to address TMJ disorder. Based on your individual needs, we may recommend one or more of the following treatments.
- Mouthguard / Night guards: For patients who grind their teeth, it is important to give them an extra layer of protection to stop teeth grinding and prevent further damage to the teeth. A custom-designed mouthguard/night guard is ideal for tooth grinding and teeth clenching.
- Restorative Dentistry: If your teeth have sustained damage, restorative dentistry treatments are an ideal way to restore function, beauty, and health to your smile. We offer a full range of dental implant services for patients who lose teeth due to advanced TMJ disorder.
- Orthodontics: If crooked teeth or malocclusion have contributed to TMJ disorder, seek treatment to realign your smile before more issues arise. We offer Invisalign treatment to help realign a crooked or misaligned smile.
TMJ Disorder FAQs
To avoid worsening symptoms, you should see our team for a TMJ evaluation. Then, we can proceed with the treatment method that will work best for you. Learn more by reading the answers to these frequently asked questions below.
Can TMJ disorder go away on its own?
Mild TMJ symptoms may improve with rest, stress reduction, and avoiding jaw strain. However, persistent or worsening symptoms often require professional treatment. Ignoring TMJ disorder can lead to more severe pain and joint damage over time. Early intervention typically leads to better outcomes.
How long does TMJ treatment take to work?
The length of TMJ treatment varies depending on the cause and severity of symptoms. Some patients experience relief within a few weeks of starting treatment. Others may require several months of consistent care to see significant improvement. Ongoing maintenance is sometimes necessary to prevent symptoms from returning.
Can stress make TMJ worse?
Yes, stress is a major contributor to TMJ symptoms for many patients. Stress often leads to jaw clenching or teeth grinding, especially during sleep. This added tension puts strain on the jaw joints and muscles. Managing stress can play an important role in TMJ treatment success.
What lifestyle changes help with TMJ treatment?
Lifestyle changes may include avoiding hard or chewy foods, limiting gum chewing, and practicing good posture. Jaw relaxation exercises and warm compresses can help reduce muscle tension. Stress-management techniques such as meditation or breathing exercises may also be beneficial. Small changes can make a noticeable difference in symptom relief.
Does TMJ treatment help with headaches?
TMJ treatment often helps reduce tension headaches and migraines linked to jaw dysfunction. Jaw muscle strain can refer to pain in the temples, forehead, and neck. By stabilizing the jaw and reducing muscle tension, treatment can decrease headache frequency. Many patients notice improvement in overall head and neck comfort.
Can TMJ disorder cause ear pain?
Yes, TMJ disorder can cause ear pain, pressure, or ringing in the ears. The jaw joint is located close to the ear canal, so inflammation can affect nearby structures. TMJ-related ear pain is often mistaken for an ear infection. Treating the TMJ disorder typically resolves these symptoms.
Does insurance cover TMJ nightguards?
Insurance coverage for TMJ nightguards varies by provider and plan. Some dental or medical plans may cover a portion of the cost. Others may classify TMJ treatment differently depending on the diagnosis. It is best to check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.
Can posture affect TMJ disorder?
Poor posture, especially forward head posture, can strain the jaw and neck muscles. This added tension can worsen TMJ symptoms over time. Improving posture can help balance muscle activity and reduce joint stress. Postural awareness is often part of comprehensive TMJ treatment.
What happens if TMJ disorder is left untreated?
Untreated TMJ disorder can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain and joint damage. Patients may develop worsening headaches, jaw stiffness, and difficulty eating. Ongoing inflammation can affect daily comfort and quality of life. Early treatment helps prevent these complications.
Can TMJ disorder return after treatment?
TMJ symptoms can return if underlying causes, such as stress or teeth grinding, persist. Maintenance care, including continued appliance use and lifestyle management, helps prevent recurrence. Many patients enjoy long-term relief with proper follow-through. Regular check-ins can help monitor ongoing jaw health.
Schedule A TMJ Evaluation and Treatment Consultation
If you are experiencing TMJ disorder symptoms, visit our team at Advanced Dental Health for a consultation. Our team can assess your current condition and recommend the most effective treatment for your dental needs. To schedule an appointment, call (410) 656-2278 or request an appointment online.