TMJ Therapy – Midland, TX
Relieve Jaw Pain & Restore Your Function
The temporomandibular joints (also known simply as the TMJ) are small body parts with a big name and responsibility – they’re the bridge between a person’s jaw and skull, essentially helping them perform functions like chewing food and speaking clearly. Unfortunately, these joints can be vulnerable to injury or strain over time, which makes regular jaw motion painfully difficult.
At Boyles General Dentistry & Implant Center, Dr. Boyles is very familiar with TMJ disorder and want to lend a helping hand. Effective TMJ therapy in Midland, TX is available to bring back harmony to your overall oral structures! Contact us today to get started with a first appointment.
Stress and TMJ Disorder
Although there are other causes behind TMJ disorder, stress is often a factor in starting or exacerbating teeth grinding or clenching at night. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been stressful for nearly everyone, we’ve seen many more cases of cracked teeth, lost or cracked restorations, chipped teeth, headaches, and sore jaw. If you’re experiencing more stress than usual, pay close attention to your other symptoms, because you could be at a higher risk of developing TMJ disorder.
How do you diagnose TMJ?
TMJ disorder is a complex condition that can spring from several different sources and causes. For instance, some patients may experience it because of an incorrect bite, while other cases develop gradually because of the presence of bruxism (habitual teeth grinding). However, there are some consistent symptoms that patients should be aware of, including:
- Constant jaw pain
- Regular headaches that feel like migraines
- Popping and clicking noises when the jaw is in motion
- Feelings of dizziness or vertigo
- Discomfort that feels like tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Experiencing difficulty with fully opening the mouth and/or chewing
If you suspect that you’re a victim of TMJ disorder, let us know as soon as possible. Dr. Boyles will perform a thorough evaluation of the joints in order to diagnose the severity of your condition and determine the therapy option that will most likely lead to success.
Equilibration / Occlusal Adjustments
If your particular case of TMJ disorder is caused by a misaligned bite, occlusal adjustment (also known as equilibration) may be the right method for relieving discomfort. One of our doctors will review your resting bite, determine the areas that are enduring excessive pressure, and carefully adjust the surfaces of certain teeth to restore harmony. This process may require new dental crowns, fillings, or other restorative options to ensure optimal results.
Occlusal Splints
One of the most effective methods for bringing back health to the TMJ is a custom-made occlusal splint. Also known as a nightguard, this appliance offers patients multiple benefits. For instance, if patient’s TMJ disorder is caused by bruxism, the splint can be worn as they sleep in order to prevent unconscious clenching and grinding. Additionally, the consistent use of the splint will help to reposition the jaw into a more comfortable position. Many patients even achieve permanent improvements!
TMJ Treatment FAQs
Is TMJ Treatment Safe?
TMJ treatment is a typically safe solution so long as it’s provided by a qualified professional. In many cases, some dentists can offer non-invasive methods such as occlusal adjustments, which even the National Institutes of Health recommends as a reliable and safe option for managing TMJ disorders. Our team will also walk you through your treatment plan and discuss any concerns you might have before starting, that way you can be as comfortable as possible.
How Long Does TMJ Treatment Take?
The length of your TMJ treatment will be different from other patients based on both the specific method used and the severity of your situation. With occlusal adjustments, you can usually expect a relatively swift process, and you should notice the difference once your bite has been corrected. The timeline, however, will depend on the necessary changes that we’ll need to make. For some people, more lasting relief can be accomplished after several weeks or months of treatment. During your consultation, our team can provide you with a more accurate estimation based on your specific needs.
Can TMJ Be Cured Permanently?
It isn’t always the case that temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) can be completely cured, but you’ll still want to try managing it as effectively as possible. There are some solutions, like certain home remedies, that can provide fast but temporary alleviation. For more long-term results, you’ll want to speak with a professional about options like occlusal adjustments, which help relieve the jaw muscles and minimize teeth grinding, allowing you longer-lasting relief of TMJ symptoms. You might even consider combining short-term and long-term methods for the best outcomes, that way you can find a strategy that fits your lifestyle while making your jaw more comfortable in the long run.
Does Occlusal Adjustment for TMJ Hurt?
Undergoing an occlusal adjustment for TMJ disorder is typically not a painful process. For your treatment, our team will first carefully file a small amount of your teeth or dental restoration(s) to ensure your bite is balanced while also relieving any stress on your jaw. We’ll use a small dental drill to perform this, but we’ll also provide you with a local anesthetic to ensure that you’re completely pain-free during the process. Afterward, you may experience mild soreness, but this should be short-lived and go away after a few days. Remember that our team will want you to feel comfortable throughout your procedure, and we’ll do everything we can to make sure your treatment goes smoothly.