TMJ Treatments
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can manifest as pain, discomfort, and restricted movement in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
Our team at Heal Dental Care is committed to diagnosing and treating TMJ issues with precision and care. Our practitioners have a selection of appliances and treatments designed to effectively address the symptoms associated with TMJ disorders.
Symptoms of TMJ disorder can vary in severity and may include:
- Jaw Pain: Persistent or intermittent pain in the jaw joint, often worsened by chewing, speaking, or jaw movements.
- Jaw Clicking or Popping: Audible sounds or sensations of clicking, popping, or grinding when moving the jaw.
- Jaw Stiffness: Difficulty or discomfort when opening or closing the mouth, particularly in the morning or after periods of prolonged jaw use.
- Ear Pain: Pain or discomfort in or around the ears, often accompanied by ringing (tinnitus) or a feeling of fullness.
- Headaches: Recurrent headaches, especially around the temples or in the temples, which may be mistaken for tension headaches or migraines.
- Facial Pain: Pain or tenderness in the face, particularly around the cheeks, temples, or jaw muscles.
- Difficulty Chewing: Challenges or discomfort when chewing, especially hard or tough foods.
- Lockjaw: Temporary or persistent locking of the jaw joint, making it difficult to open or close the mouth fully.
- Neck Pain: Pain or stiffness in the neck muscles, often associated with tension or muscle strain.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity or pain in the teeth, often without any dental issues or cavities present.
Our TMJ Treatment Options
NTI Appliances
The NTI appliance is a unique diagnostic appliance which can reduce and eliminate the symptoms of TMD in many cases. Customised for each patient, the NTI works to decompress and deprogram the jaws and importantly the jaw joint (TMJ).
Long term NTI use can cause permanent movement of the teeth and changes to the way they function. It is important the underlying causes of TMD are addressed for a comprehensive solution. An NTI may help when patients have severe, acute TMD pain.
Occlusal Splints
Occlusal splints work by providing a cushioning barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from coming into direct contact and reducing the impact of clenching or grinding during sleep or throughout the day.
By promoting proper jaw alignment and alleviating pressure on the TMJ, these splints can significantly reduce discomfort and improve the overall function of the jaw joint. Additionally, occlusal splints can help protect the teeth from wear and damage caused by bruxism, ultimately preserving dental health.
Masseter Injections
For cases where muscle tension is a significant contributor to TMJ discomfort, our practitioners may recommend masseter injections. Botox treatment for TMJ disorders is an innovative approach to alleviating symptoms associated with temporomandibular joint dysfunction. This non-surgical procedure involves the injection of botulinum toxin into specific muscles responsible for jaw movement, effectively reducing muscle activity and tension.
By targeting the overactive muscles contributing to jaw clenching, grinding, and associated pain, Botox injections can provide significant relief for individuals suffering from TMJ disorders. Additionally, Botox treatment can help reduce muscle spasms and alleviate symptoms such as headaches, facial pain, and jaw stiffness. Unlike traditional treatments, Botox offers a minimally invasive solution with minimal downtime and virtually no recovery period.
Lifestyle Changes & Other Therapies
Many of us lead busy lives and find it hard to take time out for exercise, relaxation, stretching and rest. This can have a direct correlation with stress and tension in specific areas of the body, like the TMJ. Some small changes to your busy schedule might help you to relax, unwind and heal. We may advise yoga, meditation practice, chiropractic treatment, seeing a life coach, having regular massage, or seeing another therapist to help with this.
Contact us today
At Heal Dental Care, we understand the impact that temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can have on your daily life. Let us help you find relief and regain comfort in your jaw function.
