TMJ is the abbreviation for “temporomandibular joint,” the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull and is responsible for controlling jaw function. When you have a TMJ problem, there are many possible side effects, from a clicking jaw to debilitating headaches.
Whatever the cause of your TMJ problem, you don’t have to live with this chronic pain. We will find the best solution for your migraines and jaw pain so you can go about every day smiling and pain-free. At Dentistry for Life we strive to provide you with the best TMJ and migraine treatments Philadelphia has to offer.
If you have ever sat at your desk and suddenly realized you have incredible jaw pain, chances are good that you have been unconsciously clenching your teeth.
Sometimes awareness is not enough to make this problem stop. At Dentistry for Life in Philadelphia TMJ and migraine treatments start by treating the source.
Sometimes a TMJ disorder is situational and temporary and will go away on its own. A time of high stress, for example, can cause grinding and clenching of teeth which inflames the joints and causes pain. Some people can get past this discomfort and retrain their jaw to work properly. More people, however, have chronic TMJ pain and the problem will become permanent unless they do something about it.
Some causes of TMJ disorder include:
Grinding your teeth at night (sleep bruxism).
Arthritis.
Cartilage recession.
Excessive clenching of your teeth.
Jaw misalignment.
The TMJ can be found in the place where your jawbone attaches to the skull. Should there be a jaw dysfunction, the muscles and nerves surrounding the jaw will become irritated. This leads to TMJ disorder, pain, and discomfort.
Side Effects of TMJ Disorder
When you have a TMJ problem, there are many potential side effects. Knowing them can make it clear whether TMJ is really your problem or not.
A popping or clicking sound when opening your mouth.
Aching jaw.
Gum recession.
Sore teeth.
Discomfort or soreness in the face, neck, or shoulders.
Cracked tooth enamel or damaged dental work.
Dizziness.
While you may feel like you can learn to live with the discomfort of your joint issues, it’s important to understand the significance of this disorder.
Depending on the source of your jaw pain, there are several viable treatment options:
Invisalign
Jaw misalignment is a common cause of TMJ disorder. When you align your teeth and jaw with Invisalign, the pain is eliminated and, with it, all the negative side effects of teeth grinding. Patience will be necessary to complete this treatment but, once finished, you’ll never experience TMJ pain again.
Night Guards
If you unconsciously grind your teeth while you sleep, a night guard can prevent the destruction that comes from teeth scraping against each other. This intervention can also stop headaches in their tracks. A full-coverage night guard is clicked into place on your upper teeth to protect them from your lower teeth. An NTI night guard prevents teeth from touching and triggers a nerve reflex to relax the muscle and stop clenching behavior.
Botox
At Dentistry for Life in Philadelphia Botox is directly delivered to the source of the jaw pain can immediately minimize the discomfort caused by grinding or clenching your teeth. This injection is more than cosmetic, it’s a pain reliever.
Benefits of Treating TMJ
One of the biggest problems with TMJ is the loss of full function in your jaw without difficulty and pain.
Treating your TMJ disorder will get rid of the pain - including the debilitating migraines often associated with it - and allow you to fully open your mouth without possibly dislocating your jaw or causing any other complications.
In addition, treating your TMJ disorder often means going past the effect and digging into the cause of it. By treating the cause, you can avoid more serious issues such as broken teeth or gum disease and improve the overall health of your mouth.
Philadelphia Dentist Who Fixes Teeth Grinding
You don’t have to live with mouth or jaw pain. If you are suffering from severe headaches or discomfort, if you want to stop grinding your teeth, visit our Philadelphia dentists for help. Get a healthier mouth with help from Dr. Kimmie Patel or Dr. Kunal Parikh, Philadelphia general dentists.
TMJ FAQ
Are there natural ways to treat TMJ until I see the dentist?
Yes. You can try several methods to ease your symptoms. This includes eating soft foods, chewing with both sides of your both, avoiding biting with your front teeth, avoiding gum, avoiding opening your mouth more than two inches, using cold or warm compresses four to five times a day, and gently massaging the sore jaw joint throughout the day.
How long does it take TMJ disorders to go away?
This depends on the treatment you have. It can take one to two weeks after treatment for many symptoms to fade, although it can take longer for your actual disorder to heal. Definitely talk to the dentist and ask what you might expect after your specific treatment.
I’ve heard that doctors prescribe antidepressants for TMJ. Does TMJ make me depressed?
No - or at least, not from TMJ. However, some doctors choose to prescribe certain antidepressants because they can put patients into the deepest level of sleep, which causes the jaw muscles to completely relax. This lessens the pain and other chronic symptoms.
How much does treatment for TMJ cost?
The cost varies depending on which treatment you need. Some treatments only need one appointment, while others can stretch on for months. This all depends on the cause and severity of your TMJ.
Dental insurance covers some or all of many of the procedures that treat TMJ. If your insurance does not cover enough or if you do not have insurance, you will be responsible for covering all of the costs. If you are worried you may struggle with a large payment, ask about financing or possible payment plans during your consultation.
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