Has your jaw been hurting, feeling stiff, or clicking whenever you talk or chew? These might be symptoms of TMJ disorder, in which it is ultimately the joint of your jaw to the skull that is affected. By using an appropriate TMJ treatment in Lethbridge, you will be able to ease the pain, increase the jaw’s range of motion, and eventually get back the normal function of the jaw.
What Causes TMJ Pain?
TMJ pain can develop due to several factors, including:
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Jaw injury or dislocation
- Stress-related muscle tension
- Misalignment of teeth or bite
- Arthritis in the jaw joint
When you know what’s causing the pain, treatment will be easier to find.
When to See a Dentist for Jaw Pain
If you are experiencing continuous pain in your jaw, headaches, or an inability to open your mouth fully, it is time to go to a dentist in Lethbridge. If you hear your jaw click or lock, or if it hurts while you eat, your TMJ joint may need help. Viewing your bite and joint movement, the dentist may suggest the best treatment for your condition.
Dental Solutions for TMJ Treatment
Many people have to be told more than once that oral hygiene is the leading factor in the alleviation of TMJ pain. Some of the dental solutions for the treatment of TMJ, which can make such a difference, are the following:
- Mouthguards or Splints: These personal devices diminish the grinding of teeth and help your jaw relax during the night.
- Bite Adjustment: By aligning teeth properly, the pressure on the jaw joint will be balanced.
- Orthodontic Treatment: Braces or aligners can help reposition your teeth for better bite alignment.
- Restorative Procedures: If the wear or loss of the teeth has made your bite defective, then the removal of the decay or crowns can be the solution to the restoration of balance.
Such treatments are intended to lessen the strain on the TMJ joint, thus enabling the muscles and ligaments to heal by themselves.
At-Home Remedies for Mild TMJ Pain
When your symptoms are minor, you may attempt a handful of straightforward home treatments:
- Use a heated compress to relax the muscles.
- Use soft foods so that the jaw will not be strained.
- Do not chew gum or eat hard snacks.
- Perform light jaw movements to regain flexibility.
- Control your stress by using breathing or relaxation methods.
Such measures are capable of alleviating pain, but if the pain persists, you should definitely seek the advice of a professional.
When to Consult a Dentist for TMJ Treatment
You should recognize the time to seek a dentist for TMJ treatment:
- The pain lasts more than a week.
- Your jaw clicks or pops every time you open your mouth.
- Your jaw locks or becomes stiff.
- Over-the-counter pain relief isn’t helping.
- The pain spreads to your ear, neck, or shoulders.
Delaying treatment can worsen the illness, and thus, early treatment will prevent damage to it.
Professional Treatments That Work
Based on the reason and intensity, your dentist may recommend one or more of the below treatments:
- Physical therapy to strengthen jaw muscles.
- Laser therapy to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Botox injections to relax tight jaw muscles.
- Medication such as anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants.
- If the joint is badly damaged. or misaligned surgery (in occurrence)
The alternatives offered to you are tailored according to your specific condition for long-lasting relief.
Relieve Jaw Pain and Restore Comfort – Visity Today!
Are you fed up with TMJ pain? Schedule your appointment at Stafford Family Dental and get going with your healing path to permanent pain relief and a happy smile!
FAQs
How do I know if I have TMJ disorder?
You may have TMJ if there’s any pain in your jaw, or if you hear a clicking sound when you open or close your mouth.
Can stress cause TMJ pain?
Stress indeed causes jaw clenching or teeth grinding, which can trigger TMJ symptoms.
Are TMJ treatments painful?
Most treatments are comfortable for patients and target pain so as not to cause any.
How long does TMJ treatment take to work?
Depending on the type of condition and severity, you may notice significant improvements in a few weeks.
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