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
Several common signs of TMJ include:
- 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. Treating TMJ in its early stages is better before these symptoms worsen over time.
Treating TMJ Disorders in Oxford, PA
Patients who clench and grind their teeth at night benefit from custom-made night guards. To create this custom oral appliance, Dr. Speck takes dental impressions sent to a lab for fabrication. Once the night guard is complete, he makes minor alterations to ensure that it fits properly.
Night guards 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. Night guards also prevent the need for cosmetic treatments for worn teeth like dental bonding or veneers.
Physical Therapy
Patients with mild TMJ symptoms benefit from physical therapy. In physical therapy, you’ll learn special stretches and exercises to help relax the tight muscles in your face, jaw, and shoulders. These gentle movements can reduce pain and help you move your jaw more easily.
Physical therapy may also include massage or other techniques to improve blood flow and reduce stress in the jaw area. Over time, regular therapy can help you feel less discomfort in your face and upper body.
Medicine
We may recommend prescribed medicine for TMJ. One common option for TMJ patients is muscle relaxants. Muscle relaxants help relieve stress in the face and jaw to stop bruxism and morning headaches or migraines.
Taking the right medicine can make a big difference in how you feel. It can help your jaw relax, stop painful symptoms, and improve your sleep. Always take any medicine as directed by your dentist or doctor, and let them know if you notice any side effects.
TMJ Treatment FAQs
Read answers to common questions about TMJ treatment in Oxford, PA, to learn more:
What is the most effective treatment for TMJ?
The best treatment for TMJ depends on the severity of the symptoms. Some people feel better with simple home care, like using ice packs or taking over-the-counter pain medicine. You can also avoid chewy or hard foods to give your jaw a break. Stretching and gentle jaw exercises may also help.
Our dentist might suggest a custom night guard if your symptoms don’t go away. This mouthpiece can stop you from grinding your teeth at night. If you have severe symptoms, we’ll refer you to a local oral surgeon for TMJ surgery.
The most effective treatment is usually a mix of methods, based on what works best for you. Dr. Speck can help you make a custom treatment plan
What is the main cause of TMJ?
The primary causes of TMJ disorders can vary for each patient. However, TMJ problems are usually due to problems with the jaw muscles. This could be due to injury to the jaw, joint erosion, or arthritis. Chronic grinding or clenching of the teeth is another.
In some cases, stress might contribute to the condition; patients often hold tension in their facial and jaw muscles. Therefore, discussing your TMJ symptoms with your dentist or doctor is important.
What causes TMJ to flare up?
Multiple factors can cause TMJ flare-ups, which can differ for each patient. Medical doctors consider TMJ disorders a medical problem involving physical and psychological components. These components include joint inflammation, fatigue, headaches, decreased range of motion in the jaw area, and pain.
Many dentists have successfully treated TMJ issues through orthodontic treatments or contouring of the teeth to improve occlusion or bite alignment. In addition, TMJ disorders often require a multidisciplinary approach. This means your dentist and doctor can work to diagnose the issues and provide comfortable TMJ treatment in Oxford, PA.
What happens if I do not seek treatment for TMJ disorders?
If you do not treat TMJ disorders, they can lead to many uncomfortable or painful symptoms. Long-term effects might include chronic jaw pain, headaches, and earaches. You might also experience difficulty chewing or even talking. TMJ disorders can also lead to airway sleep disorders.
In some severe cases, TMJ disorders could cause lockjaw, a condition where the jaw becomes stuck in position. Don’t wait. Seek medical or dental attention if you suspect you’re dealing with TMJ issues.
Can TMJ go away on its own?
Yes, TMJ symptoms can sometimes resolve on their own. This is the case when temporary stress or a short-term overuse of the jaw muscles triggers your symptoms. Chewing gum excessively or clenching your teeth are examples of this.
However, if your symptoms persist, it’s best to consult a medical doctor or dentist. They can provide treatments and exercises to help reduce the strain on your jaw and alleviate your discomfort.
Can you have TMJ on one side only?
Yes, you can experience TMJ disorder on just one side. It’s not always a bilateral condition. Dental professionals refer to it as unilateral TMJ pain or disorder due to injury, joint misalignment, or jaw muscle imbalance.
Symptoms could include pain, difficulty chewing, or trouble opening and closing the mouth on the affected side. Early intervention can help manage the condition and prevent potential complications.
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 610.981.1320 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 more questions. They’ll gladly assist you.