Jaw pain, headaches, tooth damage and a popping sound in the jaw are just some of the symptoms of temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders, often referred to as TMJ or TMD. These disorders can cause dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles, leading to pain and discomfort. As part of our general dental treatments at SmileVana, we offer diagnosis and treatment options for those suffering from TMJ or TMD in our office in Easton, MA.
There are various treatments that can be used to lessen the pain and tooth damage caused by TMJ. Conservative methods involve using over-the-counter pain medications, changing your eating habits and using ice to reduce pain and inflammation. However, these are often not enough for many patients. At SmileVana, we offer specialized dental treatments including oral appliances that can reduce the pain of TMD while protecting teeth from the damage caused by clenching the jaw or grinding the teeth, which is common with these disorders.
It is important to get an accurate diagnosis for TMJ/TMD. The symptoms can vary from person to person, and may be caused by other issues. Some of the symptoms include radiating pain from the jaw, clenching the jaw, headaches, misalignment between the top and bottom jaw and stiffness in the jaw. A popping or clicking sound when chewing is also a sign of TMJ. Dr. Smith, our dentist at SmileVana, can evaluate your symptoms and perform a thorough exam for an accurate diagnosis. If TMJ/TMD is found to be the cause of your discomfort, she will discuss treatment options to reduce pain and discomfort while protecting your oral health.
If you believe you may have a temporomandibular joint or muscle disorder, contact SmileVana today to schedule an appointment. We will help you get to the bottom of your jaw pain and ensure your oral health is protected.