The joints that connect the lower and upper jaw are the temporomandibular joints. Complications and problems can occur in the jaw joint and the muscles that control the jaw.
Other often painful symptoms can damage teeth and make it difficult to use the jaw and teeth properly. Visit Premier Dental Care for your restorative dental needs.
Treating TMJ Disorders
There are several treatment options that can help alleviate painful symptoms of TMJ disorders. Our dentists in Palmdale, CA can help you determine the best course of treatment for your condition.
Lifestyle Changes
When TMJ symptoms are mild, at-home options may help alleviate TMJ pain. Some of these solutions include:
- Jaw exercises
- Relaxing your facial muscles
- Sleeping on your side
- Using an ice pack in a clean cloth
- Using a heat pack
- Eating soft foods to help your jaw rest
However, if your TMJ pain is severe and frequent, you can call our dentists in Lancaster, CA at (661) 948-6700 or our Palmdale office at (661) 273-6565. We will make sure that you can get effective treatment, whether you receive it in our office or from a recommended specialist.
Invisalign
If you have misaligned or crooked teeth and suffer from TMJ pain, Invisalign may help. Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to straighten teeth gradually and give patients a more balanced bite. However, this option is not good for patients who clench and grind their teeth as a result of TMJ and cannot stop bruxism.
Oral Appliances
TMJ disorders can often be treated conservatively with oral appliances. Oral appliances act like mouth guards and prevent teeth from grinding together. They cover and protect teeth to prevent further wear and tear. They also take the pressure off of the jaw and allow teeth to properly align.
After receiving treatment with oral appliances, some patients may need restorative treatment. If teeth have been worn down or damaged due to bruxism caused by TMJ, you can receive dental crowns to protect teeth from further damage.
TMJ: Symptoms and Causes
Some of the most common symptoms of TMJ problems are:
- Pain
- Limited movement of the lower jaw
- Clicking sounds
- Muscle spasms
- Locking of the jaw
Potential causes of TMJ can include:
- Genetics
- Hormones
- Teeth clenching and grinding
- Trauma
- Low-level infections
- Auto-immune diseases
TMJ Disorder FAQs
Can I treat TMJ at home?
You can take steps at home to reduce the number of symptoms and hope that it goes away on its own. Very mild cases can go away on their own. However, cases of TMJ that are moderate to severe may require treatment by your TMJ specialist at Premier Dental Care.
Why does my jawline hurt only on one side?
TMJ is dynamic and may not affect both sides. Your jaw may be hurting on one side more than the other because of your sleeping position at night. If you sleep on your side, this position can actually make your TMJ symptoms worse. Try to sleep on your back facing up as often as you can.
What is the best treatment for TMJ?
The best treatment for your specific TMJ disorder will depend on your circumstances. An oral appliance like a mouthguard is the most popular choice among patients. Although, you may need a more comprehensive treatment plan if your TMJ diagnosis is severe.
Can TMJ go away on its own?
Yes, TMJ could go away on its own for most people. Simple self-care practices and at-home treatments can be effective in treating discomfort from TMJ disorders. However, for most people, it is not likely to go away on its own. If your TMJ symptoms persist or are severe, you need to see a dentist or specialist.
Is TMJ a medical or dental problem?
TMJ disorders can be both a medical and dental problem. If your TMJ problem is due to diseases that cause pain in the facial area or the jaw joint, it is a medical problem. Inflammation in the jaw joint also tells us it’s a medical problem. On the other hand, if the TMJ disorder comes from problems in the oral cavity or teeth alignment, it is a dental issue. Dentists also often treat TMJ disorders due to symptoms like jaw pain or difficulty chewing. Whether you need to see a medical doctor or dentist will depend on the issue or symptoms.
Does everyone with TMJ need surgery?
No, not everyone with TMJ needs surgery. Many patients find relief with non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, dental splints, or medications. Surgery is usually a last resort when other treatments don’t work.
Request an Appointment Today
Call our Lancaster, CA dentist office at (661) 948-6700 or schedule a dental visit to our Lancaster dentist office online.
Call our Palmdale, CA dentist office at (661) 273-6565 or schedule a visit to our Palmdale dentist office online.