Does it hurt your jaw to eat hard or chewy foods? Do you often wake up with headaches and jaw pain? You may have a TMJ disorder. The temporomandibular joints are the joints that connect the jawbone to the skull. These joints help patients bite and chew properly. When the temporomandibular joints are injured or under stress, patients can experience jaw and tooth pain and may begin clenching and grinding their teeth. These symptoms are common signs of TMJ disorders.
At Perfect Smiles, we offer TMJ treatment to patients in Doylestown, PA. Our restorative dentistry services can help patients reverse the symptoms of TMJ disorders. We thoroughly examine the smile and facial structure to recommend the best TMJ treatments for our patients.
Signs of TMJ Disorders
Common symptoms of TMJ disorders can include:
- Toothaches
- Worn or damaged teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Jaw joint and muscle pain
- Joint clicking and popping
- Chronic headaches and migraines
- Pain when biting or chewing
If you feel sudden pain or discomfort, or have chronic problems with your teeth or jaw, please contact our office.
Treating TMJ Disorders
Before treatment, we will take x-rays of the teeth and examine the jaw joint and muscles of the face. Then, we will recommend treatment to you based on your specific TMJ symptoms.
Crooked, missing, or broken teeth can worsen TMJ disorders. They can place pressure on different parts of the mouth, creating pressure and tension in facial muscles and ligaments. We may recommend bite equilibration for patients to create more even, uniform smiles. This treatment may include replacing, reshaping, and restoring the tooth enamel. Tooth crowns, dental bridges, dentures, and tooth bonding can help ensure that the upper and lower rows of teeth are even.
Occlusal splints are a great option for patients who clench or grind their teeth. These oral appliances may be worn during the day or at night. Patients may unconsciously grind or clench their teeth when they are stressed. Bruxism, or teeth clenching and grinding, leads to worn teeth, jaw pain, and tooth pain. Oral appliances stop further tooth wear and help relax the jaw muscles.
Schedule a Dental Consultation
Do you have chronic jaw pain or toothaches? Visit our office and we can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders. Contact Perfect Smiles for treatment today at 215-529-8048. You can also request a dental appointment with our dental team on our website.