TMJ Disorder
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder can negatively impact your oral health by causing jaw pain and teeth grinding. It can also disrupt your sleeping habits due to discomfort, tension, and nighttime clenching. Our team at New Providence Dentistry offers personalized treatment options to restore proper jaw function.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder impacts the jaw joint and its surrounding muscles, often causing jaw pain, limited jaw movement, and clicking or popping sounds. It can result from a variety of factors, including teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw injury, arthritis, or a misaligned bite. TMJ disorder may lead to headaches, earaches, facial pain, and difficulty chewing or speaking. Stress and poor posture can also contribute to muscle tension in the jaw area.
While symptoms vary, if you have persistent discomfort or difficulty with your jaw, you should contact our team for evaluation. Diagnosing and treating TMJ issues early can improve function and reduce long-term complications.
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What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder?
Symptoms of TMJ disorder can include pain, clicking or popping sounds with your jaw, headaches, earaches, and facial soreness. You may also notice limited jaw movement or jaw locking. Some experience neck or shoulder tension. These symptoms often fluctuate and may worsen with stress or overuse. If you’re experiencing these signs, a dental evaluation can help our team discover the cause and recommend effective, personalized treatment to relieve discomfort and restore jaw function.
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How is TMJ disorder treated?
Depending on your specific needs, dentists can treat TMJ disorder with a range of effective, personalized options—some simpler and more conservative, and some more complex and invasive. During your consultation, we will determine what options are best for you.
Conservative treatment options can include:
- Avoiding certain foods that can overwork your jaw
- Rest, diet, and reducing stress
- Oral medication to alleviate pain and swelling
- Physical therapy
- Mouthguards, night guards, or other appliances that can help prevent teeth grinding and clenching
More invasive treatment options can include:
- Directly injecting medication into the jaw to decrease inflammation
- Recommended jaw surgery
With proper care, many patients experience lasting relief from jaw pain, headaches, and discomfort. A healthy, balanced smile helps restore comfort and improve daily quality of life.
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Does stress cause TMJ disorder?
Yes, stress can contribute to TMJ disorder. Stress can lead to teeth grinding or jaw clenching, which puts pressure on the jaw joints. Over time, this strain can cause inflammation, discomfort, or misalignment in the temporomandibular joint. While stress alone isn’t always the cause, managing it and proper dental care can significantly reduce TMJ symptoms and improve overall jaw health.
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Is TMJ disorder painful?
Yes, TMJ disorder can be painful, but the level of discomfort varies. If you’re experiencing persistent jaw discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact our team for relief and guidance toward a healthier, more comfortable smile.
Noticing Symptoms of TMJ Disorder?
If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder such as jaw pain and restless sleep, please don't hesitate to contact our office. Early detection will help you get quicker relief and avoid more complicated problems. Schedule a consultation today!
