In the symphony of your smile, every element plays a role. At our practice, we are dedicated to restoring harmony to the complexity of your teeth, gums, and jaw joint. Therefore, we provide a comprehensive approach to TMJ treatment. We want to alleviate your discomfort. However, we also want to foster long-term oral health.
We believe in treating the “total” patient. This means that factors like stress, bite problems, and your overall wellness can affect your oral health. When you come to our office, we begin a thorough TMJ screening that includes discussing your life and wellness. Our hope is that we can bring harmony to your smile and life. We also provide restorative dental treatments to new and existing patients in Lyndhurst, New Jersey.
TMJ Disorder and How It Develops
At its core, TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint. This is the joint that connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. This joint plays a pivotal role in everyday activities, such as talking, chewing, and even yawning. However, this intricate system can develop a dysfunction. It can result in a condition known as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). Yet, you may simply refer to TMD as TMJ. Many patients use the words interchangeably.
TMJ can manifest in many ways, including jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and even chronic headaches. It often stems from a combination of factors. These can include genetics, arthritis, jaw injury, or habits, such as teeth grinding.
Comprehensive Screening: The Art of Occlusal Analysis
At Ridge Family Dental, we believe in a holistic approach to dental care. Our comprehensive screening for TMJ includes a thorough occlusal or bite analysis. This involves evaluating how the upper and lower teeth come together when the jaw is closed.
Why is this important? Because the teeth, gums, and jaw joints should work in harmony to create a balanced bite. Having an imbalanced bite can contribute to TMJ issues. This careful examination can help us identify the potential factors that contribute to your TMJ discomfort.
Imagine your smile as a symphony, with each element playing a crucial role. We emphasize the importance of harmony between the teeth, gums, and jaw joint. Therefore, our approach to TMJ treatment goes beyond merely alleviating the symptoms. It aims to restore balance and promote overall oral health.
The Ripple Effect: TMJ and Other Oral Health Issues
Constant pressure from TMJ dysfunction can have a ripple effect on your oral health. It is not just about jaw pain. These issues can potentially impact your teeth and gums. When the delicate balance is disrupted, the risk of gum disease and gum recession increases.
Our experienced team understands the intricate interplay between TMJ and other oral health issues. Therefore, we want to address the root cause of your TMJ comfort. We aim to prevent further complications and create a foundation for lasting oral well-being.
TMJ Treatment FAQs
TMJ disorders can cause pain and functional issues with your smile. Read the answers to these frequently asked questions to learn more.
What are the common symptoms of TMJ?
Common symptoms of TMJ include jaw pain, headaches, earaches, and a popping or clicking sound when you open or close your mouth. Other symptoms can include difficulty chewing, a locking sensation in the jaw, and tenderness in the face, neck, or shoulders. If you experience any of these symptoms regularly, it’s important to see a dentist or doctor for an evaluation.
How is TMJ diagnosed?
TMJ is diagnosed through a combination of your medical history, a physical exam, and sometimes imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans. Your dentist or doctor will check for tenderness around the jaw, neck, and head, listen for unusual sounds in the joint, and ask about your symptoms. Sometimes, your dentist may also look for signs of teeth grinding or misalignment.
How can a mouthguard help with TMJ?
A mouthguard or splint can help alleviate the symptoms of TMJ by preventing teeth grinding (a common cause of TMD). It acts as a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, reducing pressure on the jaw joint and minimizing pain. Mouthguards also help realign the jaw, reducing muscle tension and inflammation in the joint.
Can stress affect TMJ?
Yes, stress is a common contributing factor to TMJ. Stress can cause you to clench your jaw or grind your teeth, putting extra pressure on the temporomandibular joint. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation, can help reduce TMJ symptoms and prevent further damage to the joint.
Can TMJ affect my ability to chew?
Yes, TMJ can make chewing difficult or painful. The jaw joint becomes stiff, making it harder to move the mouth properly while eating. Additionally, inflammation or misalignment of the joint can cause discomfort when chewing food, leading to further jaw strain and discomfort. Treatment can help restore proper jaw function and make chewing easier.
Can TMJ be prevented?
While it’s not always possible to prevent TMJ, certain measures can reduce the risk of developing the condition. These include managing stress, avoiding habits like teeth grinding, and maintaining good posture. If you already have symptoms of TMJ, early treatment can help prevent the condition from worsening and improve overall jaw health.