Temporomandibular joint disorders are connected to the complex joint of your jaw. Symptoms like pain in the region or clicking noise when your jaw moves can be caused by TMJ disorders. Luckily, these problems are now much easier to diagnose and treat than previously. While no single treatment can address a TMJ disorder entirely, identifying the root cause of your problems can help us at PopUP Smiles in Newport Beach, California, ease or reduce your TMJ symptoms and advance a healthy jawbone.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joints are the two joints that attach your jaw to your skull, allowing speech, chewing, and other motions. A TMJ disorder occurs when the joints and the chewing muscles of the jaw do not work in coordination. As a result, extra stress is imposed on the joints, muscles, and bones connected to these joints. While some of the symptoms seem nuisances, many TMJ issues can progress into more severe conditions, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
Identifying the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder will enable us to find the correct treatment for your condition. If you are experiencing pain in the jaw area, then it’s essential to understand the causes of TMJ disorder, which can include the following:
- Teeth clenching or grinding
- Stress
- Gum chewing
- Arthritis
- Misalignment of the teeth or jaw
- Trauma to the teeth or jaw
TMJ Treatment Options at PopUP Smiles
- Pain Medication
Our primary focus is to get you relief from muscle spasms and joint pain. This can be achieved with pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatory drugs like injectable steroids that decrease inflammation and pain in the area. In addition to giving instant relief, these drugs can also reduce stress and tightness in the area, making it easier to attain a long-term solution.
- Self-Care Routine
In addition to drugs, we recommend a self-care routine that includes specific jaw and posture exercises, applying heat or cold compresses, eating soft diets, and resting therapies like keeping the teeth apart when not eating or swallowing.
- Nightguards
We also prescribe oral appliances to help with your TMJ disorder. A transparent plastic device called a night guard or splint can be fitted over your bottom or top teeth to keep them separated and prevent grinding. They also help relax the muscles, reduce pain, and avoid damage from grinding. There are also anterior positioning devices to move the jaw forward and relieve pressure and orthotic stabilization appliances that help shift your jaw into the precise position. Based on your situation, these may be worn 24 hours a day or just at night.
To learn more about our TMJ treatments, visit PopUP Smiles at 2131 Westcliff Drive Suite 210, Newport Beach, CA 92660. You can also reach us at 949-833-3756 and schedule an online appointment.