What Your Dentist Can Do to Fix TMJ

blonde woman holds her jaw in pain from TMJ disorder

“TMJ” stands for “temporomandibular joint.” You have two on either side of your face, which connect your jawbone to your skull and let you open and close your mouth. When either of these joints gets damaged, the disorder is often just abbreviated as “TMJ” or “TMD.” What can the dentist do to fix TMJ?

Treating TMJ at the Dentist

At every dental exam, we check your jaw and teeth for signs of TMJ. If we notice any, we can recommend jaw exercises and stretches that relieve tension and pain. There are also treatments like nightguards, which are mouthguards worn at night. Many people with TMJ grind their teeth, which only makes symptoms worse. A nightguard protects your teeth and helps your jaw relax. If misaligned teeth are causing TMJ, we can straighten your smile and treat any problems that way.

What Are the Symptoms of TMJ?

TMJ can have a handful of causes (like facial trauma, arthritis, and even genetics), but it can be hard to pinpoint a reason. People are often misdiagnosed and unaware they have TMJ. That’s why you should keep up with regular checkups and visit us if you notice certain symptoms. The most common ones include:

  • Jaw clicking or popping
  • Difficulty opening your mouth
  • Pain when you chew
  • Aching pain in your jaw and around your ear
  • Ringing in your ear
  • Neck pain
  • Headaches

Treating TMJ at Curtis Family Dentistry in Mooresville, NC

TMJ is a fairly common condition with symptoms that range from annoying to painful. For some, the pain can become severe enough to disrupt their regular routines. Thankfully, treatment isn’t complicated. Dr. Curtis and the team are proud to provide services that can fix TMJ pain and ease your pain. If you have any questions about TMJ or want to book an appointment, please contact us today!

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