How to Relieve TMJ Symptoms

Between 5 and 12 percent of all people suffer from some form of temporomandibular joint disorder or TMJ. Maybe you also have this problem and are interested in learning how to relieve TMJ symptoms. If so, you will find the following information very helpful. Marketplace Dental Excellence can offer you TMJ disorder relief as well as a full suite of dental services.

What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint connects the temporal bones of your skull to your joints. You have one hinge joint on each side of your head. This makes it possible for you to open and close your mouth. If your temporomandibular joints become damaged, you might then experience:

• Pain in the jaw
• A jaw that locks or freezes in place
• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
• Clicking noises coming from the jaw bone
• Facial swelling
• Frequent headaches or earaches

What Causes TMJ?

To relieve TMJ symptoms, it’s important to know what causes it. Here at Marketplace Dental Excellence, we often provide TMJ treatment to those with bruxism. This involves grinding or clenching of the teeth that can also sometimes lead to jaw misalignment.

Other times, temporomandibular joint problems result from trauma or injury to the mouth. For example, we frequently see car accident victims as well as those with impact-related sports injuries.

TMJ is sometimes related to arthritis. Osteoarthritis, in particular, can cause damage to cartilage as well as the joint itself. Any inflammation related to arthritis might actually make the condition worse.

Treatment for TMJ

The treatment for TMJ will largely depend on its cause. In some cases, anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen may provide relief. For those who clench or grind their teeth, we often recommend custom mouth guards to prevent this. Certain exercises can help you strengthen the jaw muscle and eliminate excessive strain on the joints.

Serious TMJ cases call for more invasive procedures. These can include corticosteroid injections as well as arthrocentesis to “clean out” the joint. Surgery to repair the damage is used only as a last resort, usually in cases involving severe trauma to the jaw.

Services We Offer

In addition to helping you relieve TMJ symptoms, we also offer a variety of other services that include:

• Dental implants
• Dentures
• Crowns and caps
• Fillings
• Dental Cleanings
• Exams and x-rays

We perform most procedures in house but do partner with other oral surgeons for more advanced ones. This ensures you receive the best possible treatment regardless of your situation. We provide care in a safe, relaxing environment so that you always feel comfortable any time you visit.

Visit Marketplace Dental Excellence for Temporomandibular Joint Care

Don’t suffer from pain or discomfort any longer. At Marketplace Dental Excellence, we can help you relieve TMJ symptoms so you will not have to worry about them. Contact us at 480.545.8700 to schedule your consultation.