At Mallard Creek Family Dentistry, Dr. Gustafson and Dr. Rankin offer expert care for patients dealing with TMJ disorders. TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, refers to issues with the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint is not working properly, it can lead to pain, discomfort, and difficulty with normal functions like talking and chewing. If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ, our dental team can help diagnose the problem and create a personalized treatment plan to get you relief.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a small but important joint located in front of your ears, connecting your jawbone to your skull. This joint is responsible for allowing your jaw to move up and down and side to side, helping you chew, speak, and perform everyday actions. When there is a problem with the TMJ, you may experience a variety of symptoms that can make these actions difficult or uncomfortable.
TMJ disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, teeth grinding (bruxism), arthritis, or misalignment of the teeth or jaw. Sometimes, it can be hard to pinpoint the exact cause, but the symptoms are often the same. If you notice any of the following, you might be dealing with a TMJ disorder:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing your mouth
- Difficulty chewing
- Locking of the jaw joint, making it hard to open or close your mouth
- Headaches or neck pain
- Earaches or a feeling of fullness in the ears
TMJ disorders can affect people of all ages, and it’s important to seek treatment if the symptoms are interfering with your daily life.
How Do We Treat TMJ at Mallard Creek Family Dentistry?
At Mallard Creek Family Dentistry, Dr. Gustafson and Dr. Rankin use a variety of approaches to treat TMJ disorders, depending on the severity of your condition. Our goal is to relieve your symptoms, restore normal jaw function, and prevent future problems. Here are some of the ways we can help:
Oral Appliances
One of the most effective and non-invasive treatments for TMJ is the use of custom-made oral appliances, often referred to as splints or nightguards. These devices are designed to fit comfortably over your teeth and help relieve pressure on the jaw joint by keeping it in a more relaxed position. Nightguards are especially helpful for patients who grind their teeth at night, as this habit can put extra strain on the TMJ and worsen symptoms.
Dr. Gustafson and Dr. Rankin will take impressions of your teeth to create a custom-fitted appliance that fits snugly and comfortably. Wearing the appliance regularly can reduce muscle tension, protect your teeth from damage, and alleviate TMJ pain over time.
Lifestyle Changes and Self-Care
In addition to oral appliances, we may recommend certain lifestyle changes and self-care techniques to help manage your TMJ symptoms. These may include:
- Diet changes: Eating soft foods can reduce stress on the jaw joint, especially when you’re experiencing flare-ups of pain.
- Jaw exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve the flexibility and function of the TMJ.
- Stress management: Since stress can often contribute to jaw clenching or teeth grinding, learning relaxation techniques may help reduce the tension in your jaw.
Get Relief from TMJ Pain Today
At Mallard Creek Family Dentistry, Dr. Gustafson and Dr. Rankin are committed to helping patients of all ages find relief from TMJ disorders. Whether you’re dealing with mild discomfort or more severe symptoms, our team is here to provide personalized care and effective treatment options. Don’t let TMJ pain interfere with your daily life—schedule a consultation today to start your journey to a healthier, more comfortable jaw.