Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Treatment For a Lifestyle without Jaw Pain and Headaches

If you have temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), you may have forgotten how it feels to live a pain-free lifestyle. TMJ dysfunction affects the joints on either side of the head, resulting in numerous undesirable symptoms like headaches, jaw pain, and locked jaws. 

When you have TMJ pain, seeing a dentist might be the last thing on your mind. However, as it turns out, your dentist may be the best person to diagnose and treat TMJ disorder. TMJ dentists like Drs. Durwood Nowell Jr. and Brooke Bell understand how the jaw system works. So, when there is a malfunction, we can offer effective treatment to end your suffering. 

What is TMJ dysfunction? What are the symptoms?

On either side of your face, just below your ears, you have a hinge-like joint (TMJ) that helps your jaw to move in several directions when yawning, laughing, eating, etc. This joint functions seamlessly when healthy, and you may not notice its presence. However, when this joint is injured, strained, or inflamed, you may experience numerous unpleasant symptoms.

Some include:

• Morning headaches and migraines
• Jaw pain or soreness
• Popping or clicking sounds when using your jaws
• Locked jaws
• Pain in the face and neck
• Ringing sound in the ears (tinnitus)

Each patient is different, so consultation with a TMJ dentist is essential. We’ll examine your jaw movement, bite alignment, and symptoms during your appointment to devise a personalized treatment plan. 

Treatment options for TMJ disorder

Patients battling TMJ disorder often benefit from wearing a personalized nightguard. This oral device is fabricated after taking your bite impressions, ensuring it fits comfortably in your mouth when sleeping. Our perfect-fitting nightguard allows normal breathing when sleeping, and you rarely notice its presence after a few days of use.

How does a nightguard work? While several factors can cause TMJ pain, bruxism (teeth grinding) is one of the leading causes. A nightguard absorbs pressure during teeth grinding, allowing jaw muscles to rest and heal. A nightguard also realigns your jaw when sleeping, removing tension from the joints. 

Many patients report reduced jaw pain and headaches after a few days of wearing a TMJ nightguard. However, some patients may need more than a nightguard. 

Other treatments for TMJ pain include:

• Jaw exercises and relaxation techniques
• Orthodontic treatments
• Prescription medications

Seeking for TMJ pain relief in Dothan, AL? Typically, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for TMJ disorder, which is why you need a consultation with a TMJ dentist. For TMJ pain management, please dial (334) 794-0348 to schedule an appointment with Southern Pine Dental.