The temporomandibular joints connect the jawbone to the skull and aid in jaw movement. When these joints are damaged or under stress, they can cause a multitude of problems. TMJ disorders are often marked by pain in the jaw, face, and teeth. Dr. Stefan Speck provides TMJ treatment to patients in Oxford, PA. He works with his patients to find areas of pain and determine the best mode of treatment to alleviate their TMJ symptoms.
TMJ therapy is a restorative dentistry solution that revitalizes the function and comfort of the smile, jaw, and joints.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
There are several common signs of TMJ:
- Teeth clenching and grinding (Bruxism)
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Chronic headaches and migraines
- Tooth pain
- Difficulty chewing
- Facial pain
- Lockjaw
- Tooth wear
If you have noticed any of these symptoms, please contact our dental office for an examination and treatment. It is better to treat TMJ in its early stages before these symptoms worsen over time.
Treating TMJ Disorders
Patients with mild TMJ symptoms benefit from prescribed muscle relaxants and physical therapy. Muscle relaxants help relieve stress in the face and jaw to stop bruxism and morning headaches or migraines. Stretching tense muscles of the face, jaw, and shoulders help combat pain and stress caused by TMJ disorders.
Patients who clench and grind their teeth at night benefit from custom-made nightguards. To create this custom oral appliance, Dr. Speck takes dental impressions sent to a lab for fabrication. Once the nightguard is complete, he makes minor alterations to ensure that it fits properly.
Nightguards are typically made of hard acrylic or plastic that keeps the teeth apart and prevents them from grinding together. Wearing this oral appliance at night can stop stress on the TMJ joints and alleviate jaw pain.
Nightguards also prevent the need for cosmetic treatments for worn teeth like dental bonding or veneers.
Request a Dental Appointment
Do you notice yourself clenching your teeth during the day? Are there signs of wear on your teeth? Call Dr. Speck for TMJ treatment today at 610.753.4506 or schedule a dental consultation with him on our website. Let Dr. Speck or a member of his dental team know if you have any further questions. They will gladly assist you.