Do you frequently wake up with face, ear, or jaw pain? You may have TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder. TMJ occurs when patients subconsciously clench their teeth, usually while asleep, which can cause pain as well as dental damage. Our team at River Vista Dentistry would be happy to help you find a solution for your TMJ so you can sleep better and feel better. Contact us today!
How is TMJ diagnosed?
When patients come to us with complaints of jaw pain, frequent headaches, or jaw clicking or popping, TMJ is often the cause. TMJ can also lead to gum recession and dental trauma, so if we notice these signs during a patient’s dental exam, we may ask them questions to determine if they have bruxism and/or TMJ. If you believe you have TMJ, it’s important to speak with your dentist and receive a diagnosis sooner rather than later. Untreated TMJ can lead to irreversible dental damage, so it’s best to seek treatment as soon as possible.
How is TMJ treated?
TMJ symptoms can be reduced and alleviated in a few different ways. Stress management and facial massages can help, and our team would be happy to suggest a few different jaw exercises that may be helpful as well. Our office also creates custom mouthguards for TMJ, which keep the jaw in a comfortable position that reduces clenching while also cushioning and protecting the teeth from damaging each other. After taking impressions of your smile, your custom mouthguard can be ready for you to use in just a few weeks!
Does TMJ go away on its own?
Some patients only deal with TMJ symptoms during times of heightened stress and anxiety, like when an important meeting or exam is coming up. In other cases, a patient may have chronic TMJ that occurs regularly regardless of what is happening in their life. Whether you experience TMJ symptoms regularly or semi-regularly, we recommend utilizing a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth, gums, and jaw. When it comes to TMJ, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Contact our office and schedule your next visit today!