TMJ Treatment—Belmont, MA
Putting an End to Your Chronic Jaw Pain
Your TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, plays a vital role in chewing your favorite foods and enunciating clearly when speaking in front of others. However, when this joint becomes strained or injured, it can lead to chronic jaw pain and other symptoms that significantly impact your daily life. At EyeSmile Optometry & Dental Care of Belmont, we are dedicated to helping you find a solution for your TMJ disorder. Through accurate diagnosis of the underlying issue and understanding your specific symptoms, we can offer a range of treatment options tailored to your needs. Don't hesitate to call us today and schedule an appointment to learn more!
What is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder impacts the temporomandibular joints, muscles, and surrounding connective tissues responsible for mouth movements like chewing, speaking, laughing, and sneezing. These joints link the lower jaw (mandible) to the upper jaw (maxilla). Overworking the joints due to bite issues, past oral trauma, or bruxism can lead to chronic pain and discomfort as they endure added tension and force.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
TMJ dysfunction presents various symptoms that patients may experience, such as:
- Jaw pain and tenderness
- Lockjaw
- Clicking and popping of the jaw when opening and closing the mouth
- Earaches or ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
- Neck and back pain
- Difficulty or pain while chewing
- Pain behind the eyes
- Limited mouth movement
- Changes in bite
If you encounter any of these signs, seeking assessment and appropriate treatment from a dental professional is crucial for effective management.
Types of TMJ Treatment
When it comes to TMJ treatment, a crucial first step is a comprehensive examination, which may involve X-rays or CBCT images of the mouth and jaw joints. Once we have a clear understanding of your condition, we will discuss various treatment options, tailoring them to suit your unique needs. Addressing the underlying causes of TMJ dysfunction is essential, as therapy will depend on these specific factors.
Occlusal Splint
Occlusal splints are oral appliances that safeguard teeth from grinding, which can exacerbate TMJ symptoms. These splints also adjust the jaw to a slightly forward position, offering relief from tenderness and chronic TMJ pain, allowing the joints to rest comfortably and providing long-term benefits.
Equilibration/Occlusal Adjustment
Bite problems are a frequent cause of TMJ dysfunction, often resulting from improperly cemented dental restorations or dental work. Occlusal adjustment involves calculating the bite and selectively buffing down restorations or fillings to balance the bite force, promoting relaxation in facial muscles and connective tissues for improved TMJ health.
BOTOX® Injections
BOTOX injections target tense muscles controlling the jaw, temporarily relaxing them. Although the effects may last several months, patients typically require follow-up appointments to sustain the relief from TMJ symptoms.