TMJ Disorder
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a common type of jaw-related pain.
At Fanelli Dental, our dentists are conscious of conditions that can disrupt overall health. Perhaps one of the most overlooked aspects of oral health is the function and comfort of the jaw joints.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is a common type of jaw-related pain. The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ), is located near the front of your ears where the upper and lower jaws connect.
Damage can occur to the TMJ when the disc in the joint (the cushioning cartilage), slips out of position. You may not be able to open your mouth very wide without pain or clicking noises.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
If you awaken with painful facial muscles, sensitive teeth or headaches, you might suffer from a condition known as temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), which can stem from misaligned teeth, teeth grinding (bruxism) or because of developmental disorders.
Other signs of jaw joint dysfunction include:
- Migraines, headaches, neck pain or shoulder pain
- Clicking, popping or locking joints
- Malocclusion (teeth that do not come together correctly)
- Tinnitus (ringing ears)
- Facial numbness
- Bruxism (teeth grinding)
- Tori (bony growths under the tongue)
- Fatigue
- Sensitive teeth
- Chronic pain in the head, neck or face
Our compassionate dentists realise that many people are unaware that jaw joint conditions can cause such dramatic symptoms and evaluate each patient through enquiry and physical evaluation to uncover underlying jaw conditions that might impede a comfortable quality of life.
- Bite marks on the inside of cheek tissue
- Joint grinding or clicking upon exam
- Cumulative symptoms of the head and neck
- 3-D cone beam imaging to reveal joint degeneration
Treatment for TMJ disorder
The goal of TMJ treatment is to reduce jaw pain, improve joint function, and protect your teeth. A full assessment helps identify the cause of symptoms such as jaw soreness, clicking, restricted opening, and headaches. Your dentist then develops a treatment plan based on your bite, jaw joints, muscles, and overall oral health.
Oral appliance therapy
Custom bite guards and night guards help reduce joint strain and relax overworked jaw muscles. They also support a more stable jaw position, especially during sleep.
Orthodontic support
A misaligned bite can stop the jaw joints from sitting comfortably. Invisalign or other orthodontic options help bring teeth into a more balanced position so the jaw can function with less stress.
Bite balancing
Small adjustments to remove high points on teeth or existing dental work help the bite meet more evenly. This can reduce pressure on the jaw joints and ease muscle tension.
Medication support
Anti inflammatory medication or muscle relaxants may be used to settle inflammation and reduce muscle spasm while other treatment is underway.
TENS therapy
Electrostimulation helps reduce muscle inflammation and supports muscle retraining. This can improve comfort and jaw movement as part of a broader TMJ plan.
Any surgical or invasive procedures (if needed) can carry certain risks. Before proceeding with a surgical or invasive procedure, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Our experienced dentists welcome you
There is no need to feel guilty or judged about your current oral health and smile. Our compassionate team is solution-oriented and passionate about helping patients recover their health and their smiles with high-quality dentistry and personalised care.
Contact our Gladstone dental clinic, and we will arrange a time for you to come in and talk with one of our dentists. Your call could be the first step to having a confident, radiant smile again.