TMJ and Jaw Pain Treatment in Roswell, GA
TMJ, short for temporomandibular joint, consists of the two joints that link your lower jaw to the temporal bone of your skull. These joints, along with the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tendons, enable essential functions such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. Each TMJ features a soft disc that serves as a shock absorber, allowing for fluid jaw movement in multiple directions. If you have jaw pain, clicking, or headaches, you may have a TMJ disorder. At Shallowford Dental Studio in Roswell, Georgia, Dr. Lucy Sedrakyan, DMD, and our team can examine your jaw and talk through treatment options. The American Dental Association notes that a diagnosis is an important step before treatment.
Types and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders can be classified into three primary categories:
- Myofascial Pain: This type involves discomfort in the jaw joint area caused by muscle tension and spasms, which can be triggered by a variety of factors.
- Internal Derangement: This condition arises when the disc within the joint is displaced, the jaw becomes dislocated, or there is trauma to the jaw's condyles.
- Arthritis: This category includes joint diseases that can affect the TMJ, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Several risk factors can contribute to the development of TMJ disorders, including teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw injuries, and specific types of arthritis. Symptoms can vary significantly and may include:
- Earaches
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Headaches
- Back and neck pain
- Dizziness
- Muscle spasms
- Tenderness in the joint
- Jaw pain
- Popping or grating sounds during jaw movement
- Jaw locking
- Limited jaw movement
Some people feel better quickly, while others need ongoing care, since TMD is often managed rather than cured.
During a dental exam, your dentist checks the jaw joints and muscles for tenderness, clicking, popping, or trouble moving. Depending on what is found, your dentist may refer you to a physician or another dentist.
During a dental exam, your dentist checks the jaw joints and muscles for tenderness, clicking, popping, or trouble moving. Depending on what is found, your dentist may refer you to a physician or another dentist.
Diagnosis and Treatment of TMJ Disorders
Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders
- Oral Appliances: Devices like night guards or stabilization splints can help alleviate strain on the TMJ.
- Steroid Injections: These injections may be used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Occlusal Adjustments: These adjustments can improve how your upper and lower teeth meet.
- Orthodontic or Prosthodontic Treatment: These treatments can address tooth alignment issues and improve overall bite function.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgical options may be considered.
- Occlusal Splints: Our custom-made night guards can help reduce the strain that clenching and grinding put on your jaw.
- Invisalign: If your TMJ pain is linked to bite issues, Invisalign may be recommended to improve how your teeth fit together.
- Surgery: For more complex cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. We can refer you to a specialist for further care.
At home, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research suggests a less-is-often-best approach: eat softer foods, avoid chewing gum and biting your nails, and try heat packs. The right treatment depends on the cause and severity, so schedule an exam to find the best approach for you. Call (470) 970-4111 or contact our Roswell, Georgia office.
