What are the benefits of TMJ treatment?
Alleviate facial and TMJ pain and reduce headaches-
Prevent excessive tooth wear
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Enhance your quality of sleep
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Eat and speak with ease once more
What does the treatment for TMJ disorder involve?
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1
We examine your case, taking x-rays to check your jaw joint. We use digital scans and impressions to create a custom splint or nightguard that fits comfortably over your teeth.
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When the device is worn, it keeps your teeth in an optimal position. Your facial muscles are relaxed, taking pressure off your jaw joint and preventing you from grinding your teeth.
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The device also protects your teeth from excessive wear when worn overnight. Severe cases may need further maxillofacial surgery to correct, but this is discussed with you.
Further treatments to help jaw pain and headaches
- Therapy – relaxation and counselling can help you to manage stress better and control tension in your body.
- Dietary changes – if your jaw joint is causing you problems, it makes sense to put less pressure on that joint. Your dentist may recommend a soft diet and the application of heat to ease the pain.
- Physiotherapy – exercises can often help to correct your bite and to loosen up the tendons and muscles that are causing your pain.
- Mouth guards – if your dentist believes your pain is caused by clenching and / or grinding, they may recommend a custom fitted mouth guard to protect your teeth and jaw while you sleep.
- Tooth adjustment – adjusting the slope and position of teeth can often help correct the position of the jaw. This can be achieved with an aligner or other appliance which gently moves the teeth into the correct position.
- Tooth replacement – if you are missing teeth, the TMJ may be being put under excessive strain due to not being properly supported on both sides. Implants, bridges or crowns may be recommended to correct this.
Frequently asked questions
TMJ disorder affects the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. It can cause various symptoms, including facial pain, headaches, jaw clicking, and pain in your neck, shoulders, and back.