Temporomandibular joint disorders occur when the joints that connect the jawbone to the skull are under stress or pressure. Facial and dental injuries, as well as arthritis, can exacerbate the jaw and tooth pain associated with these disorders. At Perfect Smiles, we offer restorative dentistry care through TMJ treatment to patients in Bensalem, PA. Our professional dentists help relieve pain and discomfort caused by TMJ disorders. They take the time to examine the patient’s teeth and jaw joints to find the areas of the mouth and face that require treatment.
Common TMJ Symptoms
There are multiple common signs of TMJ disorders to look out for:
- Jaw pain and tenderness
- Teeth clenching and grinding
- Chronic headaches or migraines
- Tense back, neck, and jaw muscles
- Pain or discomfort when chewing
If you have noticed any of these symptoms, please contact our office. We will work with you to find the source of your TMJ symptoms and provide the appropriate treatment. Many patients do not realize that they have a TMJ disorder because they may clench or grind their teeth at night. At routine appointments, we regularly examine and take x-rays of the smile. Our dentists can help catch signs of TMJ, including tooth wear and damage.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
Many factors can cause problems with TMJ. For instance, it usually goes hand-in-hand with increased stress in your life. Stress causes tension throughout your entire body and can lead to soreness and pain. Stress also makes you more likely to grind and clench your teeth. There’s a disc of cartilage in your jaw joint that allows the jaw to track smoothly. Clenching and grinding your teeth wear down that cartilage, causing pain and misfunctioning your jaw. If this disc gets dislocated, that’s another way to develop TMJ.
An uneven bite negatively impacts the jaw joint, too. When the bite is uneven, the jaw doesn’t come together properly. It can pop and click or get stuck when opening and closing your mouth. Not only do uneven bites cause TMJ disorders, but they also wear your teeth down prematurely. The pressure of your bite isn’t evenly distributed, so some teeth take on more stress than others. These teeth are also more likely to chip or break.
Trauma, like a punch or an accident in sports, can make your jaw track differently. Conditions like arthritis impact the jaw joint as well. Arthritis inflames and swells the joints; you can develop it in your jaw joint. Our job is to help you determine the root cause of your TMJ problems. Treating this root cause helps remedy the condition and improves your overall health.
Treatments for TMJ Disorders
There are a variety of treatment options for patients who have TMD:
- Nightguards: Similar to mouthguards, nightguards are custom-made oral appliances used to stop bruxism or teeth clenching and grinding. Nightguards shift the jaw slightly forward and take the pressure off the jaw joints and muscles. Wearing an oral appliance each night prevents tooth chips, cracks, and wear.
- Occlusal adjustments: Crooked teeth and an uneven bite are common risk factors for TMJ disorders. Bite and tooth misalignment put pressure on the jaw muscles and ligaments. We may recommend orthodontic treatments like Invisalign to create a more even smile. Our team can also reshape teeth to ensure that the upper and lower tooth arches have even contact.
- Trigger Point Injections: For this treatment, we inject a medicated needle into the tense muscles surrounding the temporomandibular joints. This helps loosen tight muscles and reduce pain in the jaw. We thoroughly examine the facial and jaw muscles to find the best injection points for this treatment.
- Physical Therapy: The majority of TMJ patients will undergo physical therapy. We will refer patients to physical therapists who teach and perform exercises to improve painful TMJ symptoms. Head, neck, arm, and jaw stretches help reduce muscle tension and stress. Many physical therapists also provide massages that help relax the mouth and facial muscles. Additionally, patients who undergo physical therapy benefit from a soft diet. Avoiding particularly hard or chewy foods lessens the pressure and pain on the teeth and jaw.
TMJ Treatment FAQs
TMJ can be a debilitating, painful condition. Read the answers to these commonly asked questions to learn more.
Is TMJ a permanent condition?
TMJ disorders can be temporary or chronic, depending on the cause and severity. Some patients experience symptoms that improve with treatment and lifestyle changes, while others might have long-term issues. Many cases are resolved on their own. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people can find relief from TMJ symptoms, even if they require some level of ongoing management.
Can TMJ disorders go away on their own?
TMJ disorders can sometimes go away on their own, especially if temporary factors like stress or minor jaw injuries cause them. Many patients find relief through self-care practices like jaw exercises, stress management, and avoiding hard foods. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek treatment from a dentist or healthcare provider.
Does insurance cover TMJ treatment?
TMJ treatment coverage varies widely among insurance providers and policies. Medical insurance often covers TMJ treatments, while dental insurance typically does not. Coverage can depend on state mandates and whether an instance company deems it medically necessary. Verifying coverage details and potential out-of-pocket costs with your insurance provider is crucial.
What causes TMJ flare-ups?
Stress, poor posture, and dietary factors can trigger TMJ flare-ups. Other contributors include teeth grinding, excessive jaw use, hormonal changes, and injuries to the jaw area. Dehydration and certain medical conditions can also exacerbate TMJ symptoms. Identifying personal triggers is important for effectively managing and reducing the frequency of these flare-ups.
What is the best position to sleep with TMJ?
The best position to sleep with TMJ is on your back. This position minimizes jaw pressure and helps align your head, neck, and spine. Using a supportive pillow can also help reduce strain on your jaw. Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as this can put extra pressure on your jaw and worsen TMJ symptoms.
Does TMJ cause toothache?
Yes, TMJ can cause toothaches. The pain from TMJ disorders can radiate to your teeth, making it feel like you have a toothache. This happens because TMJ affects the jaw muscles and nerves, which closely connect to those in your teeth. We’ll examine you to determine if TMJ is causing your toothache.
Contact Our Dental Office
If you have experienced jaw pain or chronic headaches, you may have a TMJ disorder. Call our office for treatment at 215-770-1081 if you have noticed TMJ symptoms. Feel free to request a dental appointment with our dental team online.