TMJ Treatment – Plano, TX
You Don’t Have To Suffer With TMJ Pain
Do you feel like your everyday life is impacted by jaw pain, stiffness, or headaches? You could be one of the millions of Americans who are affected by temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMD. If this joint isn’t working smoothly, you can’t eat, speak, smile, or laugh comfortably. But you don’t have to live with pain or discomfort! Dr. Stokes has helped countless patients by providing effective, non-surgical TMJ treatment in Plano to help their jaw joints function better. Relief is easier than you might think, so don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help!
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The TMJ is the only bilateral joint, so the left and right side have to work in perfect harmony with one another. This also makes it one of the most complicated joints in the entire body, which is partially why it’s susceptible to problems.
TMD is a condition that affects the muscles in the head and neck that are involved in jaw function and the TMJ joint itself. If these structures aren’t functioning properly, pain, stiffness, and discomfort can result.
What Causes TMJ Disorder?
Everything in your head and neck is connected to your TMJ, so there isn’t just one cause of TMD. Here are just some of the factors that can lead to this condition:
- Chronic nighttime clenching or grinding
- An injury to the head, neck or jaw
- Bite problems such as an overbite, underbite or open bite
- Poor posture
- Stress
- Arthritis
Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
In two decades as a dentist in Plano, we’ve found that one of the most common TMD symptoms our patients experience is headaches. But there are many other signs you may notice:
- Clicking or popping of the TMJ on one or both sides
- Locked jaw
- Earaches or neck pain
- Generalized jaw stiffness and pain
- Damage to your teeth such as fractures, chips, or a flattening of the chewing surface
How Can a Custom Nightguard Help With TMD?
Since a common cause of TMD is clenching and grinding, a custom-made nightguard or occlusal splint is a great solution. We make these appliances to reposition your jaw so that your muscles and the joint itself work together the way they should. This treatment also helps your teeth come together properly so you aren’t as likely to clench and grind.
In many cases, wearing one of these appliances for several months alleviates clenching and grinding along with the inflammation and pain associated with TMD. An additional benefit is that a nightguard absorbs a lot of the force exerted on your teeth to prevent chips, fractures, and other damage.
If you have any of the signs and symptoms of this common condition and think TMJ treatment in Plano might help, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Dr. Stokes and our experienced team would love to help your jaws function smoothly again so you can get your quality of life back!
