The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, connects your lower jaw to the rest of your head and plays a critical role in chewing, speaking and facial movements. The term “TMJ” is often used to describe TMJ disorders (TMD), which occur when the joint becomes misaligned, injured or stressed. Factors such as teeth grinding (bruxism), stress, arthritis or trauma to the jaw, neck or head can lead to TMD.
Common symptoms of TMD include:
- Jaw pain
- Stiffness
- Difficulty opening and closing your mouth
- Clicking, popping or grinding sounds in the jaw
- Frequent headaches
- Pain in your neck, ears or shoulders
- For some individuals, TMD can also cause the jaw to lock or limit the ability to chew and speak comfortably
How TMJ Disorders Are Treated
Treating TMJ disorders begins with identifying the underlying cause. Our experienced dentists will perform a comprehensive evaluation to assess your symptoms and determine the best course of action. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition and your specific needs.
Mild cases of TMD may benefit from conservative approaches such as relaxation exercises for the jaw and lifestyle modifications to reduce stress. If teeth grinding is a factor, a custom night guard can help protect your teeth and alleviate strain on the joint. Restorative dental treatments may also be recommended to address alignment issues or damaged teeth contributing to the problem.
In more severe cases, advanced therapies such as physical therapy, medications or surgical intervention may be necessary to restore function and alleviate pain. Dr. Benjamin Sharfae and Dr. Maggie Sharfae are committed to providing you with tailored solutions to improve your quality of life.
Why Seek TMJ Treatment
Living with untreated TMJ disorders can significantly impact your daily life, making it difficult to eat, speak and sleep comfortably. Seeking professional care not only relieves pain but also prevents long-term complications.
Contact Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill at 512-301-9002 to schedule a consultation with our dentists and take the first step toward effective TMJ treatment in Austin, Texas. We are here to help you regain comfort and functionality, ensuring your jaw works as it should.