Dentist Chesapeake
IF YOU’VE BEEN EXPERIENCING regular headaches, neck and shoulder pain, or persistent ringing in your ears, we may be able to help. These are common symptoms of temporomandibular disorder (TMD).
TMJ Problems Can Lead To TMD
Complex joints called temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your jaw to your skull. Properly aligned, these joints make it possible for us to chew, swallow, and talk. If these joints are out of alignment or not synchronized with your jaw, it can lead to serious, often painful, issues. Problems with your TMJ, jaw, and surrounding facial muscles can lead to temporomandibular disorders (TMD). These problems can be caused by undue strain on your TMJ and jaw (often a result of teeth grinding, trauma, or stress).
Some TMD Symptoms Include:
- Headaches
- Jaw, face, neck, shoulder, and back pain/soreness
- Earaches or ringing in ears
- Limited jaw movement, locking of the jaw
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds with jaw movement
- Teeth grinding
- Difficulty chewing or an uncomfortable bite
- Sensitive teeth
- Dizziness
We Use Effective Technology To Diagnose And Treat
We use several methods to diagnose TMD, including 3-D bite records and joint imaging. We also use a Doppler, which is an ultrasound to evaluate jaw joint sounds and problems.
We have several trial appliances that can give you immediate relief from your pain.
With Treatment, You Could Be Much More Relaxed
We see lots of patients that have various levels of TMD. We have had one patient sit up in the dental chair with tears in her eyes and tell us “that she finally had her bite back”. She has had wonderful results and has been pain free for 10+ years.
Another patient told us that her new night guard (occlusal guard) was like having a massage while she was sleeping because her muscles were so relaxed.
Many other patients have reported elimination of clicking, popping, and headaches.
Various Treatment Options
Various effective treatments can range from simple to more involved, including:
- Ice and hot packs
- Relaxation techniques/stress management
- Diet changes
- Physical therapy
- An appliance or mouthguard worn to stop teeth clenching
- Medication
- Surgery
Typically, TMJ problems are treatable. The best way to avoid complications is to visit with us at the first signs of concern. The sooner you start appropriate treatment, the sooner you’ll find relief. Call us today!