At Livonia Dental, your comfort and oral health are our top priorities. If you’ve been experiencing jaw pain, clicking sounds, or difficulty chewing, you may be dealing with a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Millions of people worldwide are affected by TMJ disorders. But the good news is that we offer effective treatments to help you find relief.
Don’t let TMJ disorders disrupt your daily life or prevent you from enjoying your favorite foods. We are here to support you on your journey to a pain-free jaw and improved oral health. Together, we’ll find the solution that works best for you, bringing relief and renewed comfort to your TMJ. Our office also provides restorative dental treatments in Livonia, MI.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) acts as a sliding hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull. TMJ disorders can occur when this joint becomes inflamed, injured, or misaligned. The exact cause of TMJ disorders can vary from person to person. However, several factors may contribute to their development, including:
- Jaw Injury or Trauma: A direct blow to the jaw, such as from a sports injury or accident, can lead to TMJ problems.
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Habitual clenching or grinding of the teeth, especially during sleep, can put excessive pressure on the TMJ, leading to inflammation and pain.
- Arthritis: Conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ, causing pain, stiffness, and limited movement.
- Misaligned Bite: An improper bite alignment, often due to genetics or dental issues, can place strain on the TMJ over time.
- Stress and Anxiety: Tension in the jaw muscles due to stress can contribute to the development of TMJ disorders.
Treatment Solutions from Your Livonia, MI Dentist
When it comes to managing TMJ disorders, your dentist plays a crucial role in providing relief and restoring comfort to your jaw. Here are some common treatment options we may recommend:
- Custom Mouthguards: Dr. Wassim El-Awadi can create a custom-fitted mouthguard to help get rid of pressure on the TMJ. This can also prevent teeth grinding or clenching. You will wear these devices during sleep to promote proper jaw alignment.
- Medications: In cases of inflammation and pain, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or muscle relaxants may provide relief.
- Dental Treatments: If an improper bite alignment contributes to your TMJ disorder, Dr. El-Awadi may suggest orthodontic treatments or dental restorations to correct the issue.
- Physical Therapy: Another option Dr. El-Awadi may recommend is exercises and techniques to improve jaw mobility, strengthen muscles, and reduce tension.
FAQs About TMJ Disorders
Q: Can TMJ disorders go away on their own?
A: In some cases, mild TMJ symptoms may improve with self-care measures. However, chronic or severe TMJ disorders often require professional treatment for lasting relief.
Q: How long does TMJ treatment take to show results?
A: The timeline for TMJ treatment effectiveness varies for each individual. Some may experience relief soon after starting treatment. Yet, others may require several weeks or months to notice improvement.
Q: Are TMJ disorders permanent?
A: With proper management and treatment, many people find relief from TMJ disorders and can effectively control their symptoms. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term complications.