Relief for Your Chronic Jaw, Face, & Head Pain
Dr. Jensen and our team of experts at Jensen Orthodontic Arts have plenty of experience dealing with TMJ, no matter the severity.
What Is TMJ?
Do you experience chronic jaw, face or head pain? Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to temporomandibular disorder, or TMD. But what is TMJ?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull. The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the complex joints on the right and left sides of your face that connect your lower jaw to the base of the skull, allowing you to talk and chew.
However, when this joint is not functioning correctly, it can lead to discomfort and pain known as TMJ disorder — or TMD.
How Does TMJ Treatment Work?
TMJ treatment refers to various therapies aimed at addressing TMJ disorders, such as occlusal adjustments, mouthguards, orthodontics, or surgery. The specific treatment option depends on the severity and cause of your TMJ disorder.
At Jensen Orthodontic Arts, we offer several TMJ treatments, including:
Mouthguards
Mouth Guards are custom-made appliances that fit over your teeth to reduce the pressure and grinding forces that can aggravate your TMJ. They can be worn during the day or night, depending on your needs.
Orthodontic Treatment
If your TMJ disorder is caused by a misaligned bite or teeth, orthodontic treatment can help correct the problem. Straightening your teeth with braces or clear aligners can improve your bite, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate TMJ symptoms.
Other Therapies
In some mild cases, physical therapy, massage, or relaxation techniques may help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with TMJ disorder.
What Issues Does TMJ Treatment Address?
TMJ treatment can address several issues, including:
- Pain or discomfort in your jaw, face, neck, or shoulders
- Stiffness or limited mobility in your jaw
- Clicking or popping sounds when you open or close your mouth
- Headaches or earaches
- Difficulty chewing or biting
If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation at Jensen Orthodontic Arts today. Dr. Jensen can evaluate your TMJ health and recommend the treatment options that best fit your needs.
Benefits of TMJ Treatment
The benefits you enjoy from TMJ treatment will vary depending on the severity of your condition, your unique circumstances, the severity of your condition, and the specific treatment you receive.
Below are some of the typical benefits of TMJ treatment.
Reduced Pain
TMJ treatment can greatly reduce or eliminate the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders. This can improve your quality of life and allow you to perform daily activities without discomfort.
Improved Jaw Function
TMJ treatment can improve the function of your jaw, making it easier to speak, eat, and swallow. This can also reduce the risk of developing other dental problems such as teeth grinding, worn teeth, or jaw joint damage.
Reduced Risk of Headaches
TMJ disorders can cause chronic headaches, but treatment can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches, allowing you to live a more comfortable life.
Better Sleep
TMJ disorders can cause sleep disruptions, but treatment can help you get better sleep by reducing discomfort and pain.
Improved Oral Health
TMJ treatment can improve your overall oral health by reducing the risk of dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and enamel erosion.
Improved Quality of Life
By addressing the underlying cause of TMJ disorders and reducing or eliminating pain and discomfort, TMJ treatment can greatly improve your quality of life and allow you to enjoy daily activities without the hindrance of chronic pain or discomfort
Will I Need to Recover from TMJ Treatment?
The recovery process for TMJ treatment varies depending on the type of therapy you receive. Some treatments, such as mouthguards or physical therapy, require minimal recovery time, while others, such as orthognathic surgery, may take several weeks or months to heal.
During your treatment, our team at Jensen Orthodontic Arts will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your TMJ and what to expect during the recovery process. We will also schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure the best possible outcome.
If you think you may have TMJ disorder or would like to learn more about TMJ treatment options, please contact us today to schedule a consultation. Dr. Jensen and our experienced orthodontic team is here to help you achieve a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile.