TMJ/TMD Treatment in Wellesley, MA
About 10 million Americans suffer from frequent jaw pain or discomfort. It is a very common condition. In fact, this painful affliction affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the surrounding muscles. These joints and muscles enable your jaw to move. Also, TMJ/TMD problems are more common in women than in men. Fortunately, there are successful TMJ/TMD treatment options available to alleviate symptoms.
Causes of TMJ Disorders
Some Wellesley Dental Arts patients experience jaw pain after a traumatic facial injury. Others may have directly damaged the temporomandibular joint. Teeth grinding, clenching, and arthritis in the TMJ are possible reasons. Also, since more women develop the condition, there may be a hormonal component. However, it is not uncommon for the cause of TMD pain to go unexplained.
TMD Symptoms
There are a variety of symptoms that indicate TMJ disorder. Most frequently, TMD patients report pain when eating, talking, or yawning. Additional signs of TMD include:
- A change in your bite, or how your upper and lower teeth meet
- Locked jaw
- Muscle stiffness around the jaw
- Pain in the jaw, face, neck or shoulders
- Popping or clicking sounds when you close or open your mouth
If you experience any of these symptoms regularly, call one of our Wellesley Dental Arts offices to schedule an appointment. Our dentist in Wellesley, MA will perform a thorough examination of your jaw, neck, and mouth. If you are diagnosed with TMD, we will discuss possible treatment solutions.
Custom-Fitted Oral Appliance
If your teeth have been worn by overnight grinding, a custom oral appliance or mouth guard may give you some relief. A custom-fitted night guard will protect your teeth while you sleep. What’s more, it will reduce the jaw pressure caused by intense clenching and grinding.
Muscle Relaxation Techniques
Relaxing the jaw muscles is another great TMD treatment option. This can be achieved with low-level laser therapy, botulinum toxin injections, or cold & heat therapy. A small dose of the neurotoxin injected into the jaw joint will paralyze muscles without interfering with normal movement.
Contact your Wellesley, MA dentist today to discuss your symptoms and book a TMJ consultation.