TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders and/or Myofascial Pain Dysfunction can affect how your jaw moves and how comfortable your bite feels. They often lead to daily discomfort, from soreness in the jaw to difficulty chewing or speaking, and they can get worse if they’re not addressed. If you are suffering from MPD or a TMJ disorder, McOmber Dental in Howell, NJ, can help you find comfort and relief with personalized treatment.
What is TMJ?
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, the hinge that connects your jaw to the rest of your skull. When this joint or the surrounding muscles become strained or irritated, it can lead to pain and stiffness known as a TMJ disorder. Some patients also experience symptoms related to MPD, or myofascial pain dysfunction, which affects the muscles that control jaw movement.
What Are the Common Symptoms of TMJ?
TMJ can develop for a variety of reasons. Physical stress on the joint is one of the most common causes, which may come from teeth grinding, clenching during stressful moments, or a bite that is out of alignment. Injuries, poor posture, and muscle tension in the neck and shoulders can also contribute. Common symptoms include:
- Jaw pain that worsens with chewing
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully
- Facial aching or tightness
- A locking sensation in the joint
- Clicking or popping during jaw movement
- Headaches, earaches, or pressure around the face
TMJ symptoms can begin mildly and become more noticeable over time. Paying attention to these signs and intervening before symptoms get worse is a key factor in treatment. If any of these symptoms are present and concerning you, make an appointment with our practice today.
How is TMJ Diagnosed?
TMJ is diagnosed using a multi-faceted approach. A dentist begins with a clinical examination, assessing jaw movement, evaluating pain levels, and listening for clicking or popping sounds from the jaw. They may use X-rays to view the bone’s structure and, in some cases, employ more detailed imaging systems to examine the joint and surrounding tissues. Dental impressions can also be taken to analyze bite alignment, ensuring an accurate diagnosis of TMJ.
How is TMJ Treated?
TMJ is a complex condition that requires a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual needs of the patient. Proper treatment can alleviate your symptoms, allowing you to return to your daily activities without pain or discomfort. Some methods include:
- Medication: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatories to reduce pain and swelling.
- Special Appliances: Mouth guards can help reduce clenching or grinding and improve jaw alignment.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen jaw muscles and improve flexibility.
- Stress Management Techniques: To reduce behaviors that can exacerbate TMJ symptoms.
- Dental Procedures: Adjusting bite or correcting misalignment through dental work.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgical options may be considered as a last resort.
With the right treatments, TMJ symptoms can be controlled or relieved. Patients can look forward to a future where they can enjoy their daily activities without pain and discomfort, reclaiming their quality of life.
Why Choose McOmber Dental for TMJ Treatment?
Our practice has a compassionate and caring team that listens closely to your concerns and works with you to find the most effective treatment for TMJ, MPD, or any other concerns. Patients who experience anxiety about dental visits can request sedation, which helps make appointments feel more relaxing. Since our office provides a wide range of dental services, many patients are able to manage their TMJ treatment and general care in one convenient location.
Comprehensive Dentistry in Howell, NJ
If you are dealing with TMJ or MPD symptoms, schedule an appointment with our Howell, NJ office as soon as possible. In addition to TMJ treatment, McOmber Dental offers comprehensive dental care for patients, including implants, teeth whitening, preventive care, and more. Best of all, we are fully licensed to provide oral or IV sedation for nervous patients. Contact us today to set up a consultation or learn more about how we can help manage your TMJ concerns.