Headache, neck pain relief, and more at the dentist’s office? Yes, courtesy of treatments for TMJ disorders
You are searching for relief from pain, and we are glad you found Advanced Dental. Be it pain in the face, jaw, neck, shoulders, back, or ears, our team in Aliso Viejo, California, understands that temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders or dysfunction can manifest in numerous different ways. And some of these experiences have seemingly nothing to do with the mouth. In addition to producing myriad types of pain, the individuals that we treat with TMJDs may also have difficulty chewing their food due to jaw-related stiffness and even “locking.” So, it is associated with many functional challenges, too. However, with our advanced, multi-dimensional, and tailored therapeutic approach, relief from the pain and restored healthy movement and range of motion is in your future.
What are the TMJs, exactly?
The TM joints on both sides of the face function as hinges to support the most fluid and healthy jaw movement. When undue forces are placed on these joints, and they are “overstressed,” this dynamic can give rise to symptoms like the ones discussed above.
What do you mean by stress – what causes this?
Excessive force or pressure may be applied to the joints due to seemingly innocuous behaviors, such as chewing gum every day. Or, arthritis and other degenerative diseases and trauma may be to blame. Plus, TMJDs are often associated with bruxism, the medical term for chronic teeth grinding and jaw clenching. This condition not only damages the teeth but also places excessive strain on the jaw joints and the tissues that are connected to them.
TMJ Issues and Solutions
The causes of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders vary. Similarly, treatments for this condition vary too. Among the treatments are customized oral appliances that can be slipped into your mouth to fit snugly yet comfortably, and would address the underlying source of the problem. Learn more in Aliso Viejo, California.
Relieve Jaw Discomfort
Custom Oral Appliances
Address Root Causes
Comfortable, Non-Invasive Care
How do you treat TMJDs?
Treatment plans are most definitely not one size fits all, as there are myriad sources of characteristic TMJ pain and symptoms. Also, how often patients experience these symptoms (and their severity) varies. Treatment accounts for the nature and extent of your symptoms and the root cause and may include the fabrication of special, custom oral appliances.
What are these oral appliances?
These devices are customized to slip into and fit in your mouth snugly yet comfortably, addressing the underlying source of the problem. For example, if bruxism is implicated, the dentist may order occlusal splints or bite guards. The splint adjusts the placement of the upper and lower teeth so only the front teeth touch when biting down. Without the backmost teeth in contact with each other, the forces generated while bruxing are dramatically reduced.
TMJ Treatment FAQs
Why do I have TMJ disorder?
TMJ disorder affects the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), found on both sides of the head. TMJs control your jaw muscles and ligaments, allowing you to chew, speak, yawn, and move your mouth comfortably. TMJ problems can develop for several reasons, including chronic teeth grinding (bruxism), stress-related tension, arthritis, bite misalignment, or injury. Chronic gum chewing, genetics, poor posture, and poorly fitting restorations also play significant roles.
How do you diagnose TMJ disorder?
Since TMD symptoms mimic other conditions, it can be difficult to diagnose. At our office, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing TMJ pain.
- Medical and dental history: We review your symptoms and inquire about past injuries or existing medical conditions.
- Physical exam: The dentist inspects your jaw joints for tenderness, limited mobility, and abnormal sounds.
- Imaging: We use X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to evaluate your jaw joints and muscles for abnormalities.
What is the best treatment for TMJ pain?
There is no best, one-size-fits-all treatment for TMJ pain. The best treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of your condition.
Common treatment options for TMJ disorder include:
- Home remedies: Mild symptoms can be managed with cold compresses, stress management, and eating softer foods.
- Splint therapy: The doctor may use a custom nightguard to manage excessive teeth grinding and jaw clenching.
- Pain medications: Treatment may include pain and anti-inflammatory medications.
- Orthodontics: Aligning your teeth and bite can eliminate imbalances that contribute to TMJ pain.
Does TMJ pain treatment involve surgery?
We can treat many TMD cases without surgery. However, in extreme cases that don’t respond to conservative treatment, surgery may be required, including TMJ replacement and jaw reconstruction. Our team prefers a minimally invasive approach, and surgery is recommended as a last resort.
What happens if I ignore TMJ symptoms?
Ignoring TMJ symptoms can allow the condition to worsen over time. Mild discomfort may eventually progress into chronic jaw pain, headaches, difficulty chewing, jaw locking, worn teeth, or ongoing muscle tension. Untreated teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism) may also damage your teeth, restorations, and jaw joints. If your TMJ pain worsens or affects your everyday life, it’s best to seek professional treatment.
Can TMJ pain resolve on its own?
Some mild TMJ symptoms may improve with rest, stress reduction, or avoiding excessive jaw movement. However, recurring or persistent symptoms usually indicate an underlying issue that should be evaluated by a TMJ specialist.
Can TMJ pain return after successful treatment?
We would like to say that TMJ treatment is permanent, but sometimes it’s not. TMJ symptoms can sometimes return, especially during periods of stress or if teeth grinding continues. However, ongoing care and proper maintenance can significantly reduce the likelihood of relapse.
How much is TMJ pain treatment in Aliso Viejo, CA?
The expense of TMJ therapy differs based on the seriousness of your condition, diagnostic imaging, and the kind of treatment administered. We’ll share a cost breakdown after an in-depth examination. We are upfront with pricing to ensure you proceed with clarity and confidence.
Does insurance cover TMJ pain treatment?
It depends on your coverage. Because TMJ disorder can be a medical and dental issue, it’s best to check with both your health and dental insurance when seeking TMD treatment. Our office accepts many insurance plans to make your treatment affordable.
Where can I find a TMJ dentist in Aliso Viejo, CA?
Living with TMJ pain can affect your everyday life, including how you speak, chew, and sleep. If you experience constant headaches and jaw pain, it’s not something you should learn to live with. Dial (949) 289-9993 and get expert-guided TMJ pain treatment at Advanced Dental.
So, I don't have to undergo aggressive therapy or surgery?
No! But it is essential to reach out to us sooner rather than later about your TMJ symptoms. Without treatment, they tend to get worse in both severity and frequency.
Treatment for TMJDs at the dentist's office provides sustained pain relief and more by resolving the symptoms at their source. Many of our patients are no longer as reliant on pain meds or have stopped taking them altogether. These medications tend to address symptoms but not their cause. Contact Advanced Dental today at (949) 289-9993 to schedule your evaluation in Aliso Viejo, CA.
Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula
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Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula has been practicing dentistry for over 20 years. After advanced training at Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, she relocated to Orange County, CA in 2015. Dr. Chitra is a member of the American Dental Association and California Dental Association. Committed to continuous education, she provides top-quality dental services using the latest advancements.
Dr. Joseph C. Yang
Dr. Joseph C. Yang has over 30 years of dental practice experience. He earned his B.S. from Washington University in St. Louis, MO, and his D.D.S. from the University of Illinois, Chicago. He then had a distinguished 30-year career as a U.S. Naval Dental Officer, including a residency in Periodontology at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Dr. Yang is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a member of the American Dental Association and American Academy of Periodontology. As a board-certified Periodontist, he has performed thousands of successful periodontal and implant procedures. He is also a renowned lecturer and trainer in the latest implant and periodontal techniques worldwide.