117 Batesville Rd Suite 202, Simpsonville, SC 29681
Get The Smile You Deserve What is TMJ/TMD therapy?
TMJ/TMD is a prevalent condition affecting many Americans each year. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in your jaw, you may be dealing with TMD. TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, while TMD refers to the dysfunction of this joint. The TMJ connects your jaw to your skull, allowing you to speak, eat, chew, and laugh. When TMD occurs, it can interfere with these everyday activities.
There are several potential causes of TMJ/TMD. For instance, an injury to the jaw can dislocate the temporomandibular joint. If you participate in contact sports, consider getting a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your jaw during play. Additionally, misaligned teeth can lead to improper jaw placement, putting strain on the TMJ. Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can also place excessive stress on your jaw and joints, contributing to TMD. If you're experiencing chronic jaw pain, reach out to your dentist in Five Forks as soon as possible.
What Questions Should I Ask At My TMJ Appointment?
Here are some important questions to consider:
How is TMJ Disorder Diagnosed?
There isn't a single test that can definitively diagnose TMJ disorder. Instead, we assess your symptoms, examine your teeth, palpate your jaw, and listen for any clicking sounds. If you experience discomfort or pain when pressure is applied to specific areas, it may indicate TMJ issues. We often use X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to aid in the diagnosis while ruling out other potential causes. After diagnosing temporomandibular joint disorder, we can discuss treatment options.
How Is TMJ Treated?
There are several approaches to relieve TMJ dysfunction, including medications, mouthguards, physical therapy, injections, and surgery. One of the most common solutions we offer is a custom-fit mouthguard, which protects your teeth from grinding, prevents jaw clenching, and alleviates pain associated with these habits. The mouthguard helps maintain your jaw in the correct position. If you have a severe case or are not responding to treatment, we can refer you to a specialist or physiotherapist. In extreme cases, jaw surgery or joint replacement surgery may be necessary for patients suffering from debilitating TMJ.
How Soon Will I Experience Relief from TMJ?
Relief from TMJ can come within a few months. In addition to wearing your mouthguard, consuming soft foods can help prevent over-straining your jaw. Incorporating jaw stretches, massages, and the use of heat and cold packs can also aid in managing your symptoms.
How Often Is Surgery Recommended for TMJ?
Jaw surgery is typically only recommended for severe TMJ cases that significantly disrupt daily life, such as:
- Difficulty eating, drinking, or speaking
- Jaw locking without the ability to open it
- TMJ caused by severe oral trauma or disease
- Severe pain that does not respond to treatment within six months
What Foods Should I Avoid If I Have TMJ?
It’s best to follow a soft food diet that requires minimal chewing. Avoid foods that are hard, sticky, or chewy, such as nuts, popcorn, caramel, candy, apples, and ice. Opt for softer alternatives like applesauce, mashed potatoes, pasta, yogurt, and oatmeal.
Can TMJ Be Cured?
Yes! Fortunately, TMJ pain is highly treatable. A combination of a soft food diet, physical therapy, and consistent use of a mouthguard at night can help alleviate your TMJ symptoms. Consistency is crucial—wear your mouthguard every night, avoid hard and chewy foods, and perform jaw stretches at home to promote healing.
Recognizing the Signs & Symptoms Do I have TMJ / TMD?
Several symptoms may indicate TMJ/TMD, including:
- Headaches
- Jaw pain
- Clicking sounds when opening or closing your jaw
- Earaches
- Jaw locking
If left untreated, these symptoms can worsen and interfere with your daily activities and routines.
Know Your Options How a Dentist Can Help With Your TMJ / TMD?
Typically, a dentist can help treat TMJ/TMD with a custom mouthguard or night guard. These mouthguards help evenly distribute pressure and prevent teeth grinding, alleviating TMJ/TMD symptoms and reducing stress on your jaw. If your teeth are significantly misaligned or crooked, orthodontic treatment may also help alleviate these symptoms.
When you visit Pearl Dental Studio for TMJ/TMD treatment in Five Forks and Simpsonville Dr. Cash will conduct a one-on-one consultation with you. She will take the time to listen to your symptoms and concerns, examine your mouth and jaw, and use this information to determine if you have TMD. Dr. Cash is dedicated to providing her patients with honest and straightforward advice and recommendations. Our goal is to help you find relief from pain and return to your normal routine so you can smile with confidence. If you’re experiencing jaw pain or any other symptoms of TMJ/TMD, we encourage you to schedule a consultation as soon as possible. Give us a call at 864-214-1440, or feel free to visit our office located at 117 Batesville Road Suite 202 Simpsonville, SC 29681. We look forward to seeing you!
Frequently Asked Questions
The following are all important questions to ask and get answers to:
