Protect Your Oral Health with TMJ Disorder Treatment
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a common condition that can affect your jaw, ears, and back teeth. Although the exact cause is not known, TMJ disorder can often lead to severe symptoms and dental damage. Dr. Emma Wu can provide customized treatment to protect your oral health and prevent further damage from occurring. TMJ treatment at our North Andover, MA, practice can be performed using an oral appliance to correct jaw alignment and address other sources of the disorder. At our practice, we offer the finest dental care available with the latest technology to help improve your smile and your quality of life.
Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint. This hinge joint, located directly in front of your ears, is what connects the temporal bones of the skull to your jaw, giving you the ability to open and close your mouth. There are common signs and symptoms of TMJ disorder that you may experience, such as:
- Jaw pain, especially when yawning, chewing, or biting
- Ear pain that can radiate throughout the face, neck, and shoulders
- A clicking or popping sound when opening and closing your jaw
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Difficulty opening and closing your jaw, also known as “locked jaw”
- Facial swelling near the joints
- Tooth pain
- Chronic headaches or migraines
- Ringing in the ears
- Causes of the Condition
There are a number of reasons patients may develop TMJ disorder. Often, the underlying cause of the condition is a misalignment of the jaws. This misalignment can strain the joint and cause surrounding muscles to become inflamed, leading to severe pain and discomfort. While clenching and grinding of teeth is often a symptom of TMJ disorder, these habits, also known as bruxism, may also cause some patients to develop the condition.
TMJ Disorder Treatment Details
Dr. Wu believes in providing noninvasive treatment before relying on surgery. Many times, symptoms can be addressed with a night guard and minor changes to your lifestyle. The first step in addressing TMJ disorder is scheduling an appointment with our office. Dr. Wu is a trusted dentist who has experience in treating this condition and is committed to the long-term health of her patients. She can perform a detailed examination with x-rays, scans, and the latest technology. With this exam she can determine the cause of your TMJ disorder to formulate the right treatment plan. Dr. Wu is dedicated to addressing the cause of TMJ disorder, not just relieving the symptoms.
Dr. Wu and the team at Aesthetic Family Dentistry can help you receive the relief you need.
For dental damage that has already occurred, Dr. Wu can provide dental crowns or other restorative treatments for teeth that are worn or broken. If dental misalignment is a contributor for your condition, she may recommend Invisalign® to help realign your teeth and bite. During your consultation, Dr. Wu will also take impressions of your teeth to create a customized night guard. Your oral appliance will fit comfortably over your teeth, realigning your jaw to relieve pressure and strain on the joint. You will typically only wear this device while sleeping, but Dr. Wu may recommend you wear it more often if your TMJ disorder is more severe.
Alleviate Your Pain
If you are suffering from the effects of TMJ disorder, contact our office today to schedule your consultation. Dr. Wu and the team at Aesthetic Family Dentistry can help you receive the relief you need.