When you have chronic headaches or migraines, the cause could be linked to the bite function and balance of your smile. The result of stress and strain on your jaw joints, TMJ disorder, also known as TMD, could mean painful headaches and more. Fortunately, your Houston, TX, dentist has treatment options to restore health, balance, and comfort to your smile.
The Causes and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
The movements we need to eat and speak rely on the temporomandibular joints, which connect your head and jaw. However, to function properly these joints rely on the balance of your bite. When the joints undergo excess strain due to factors impacting this balance and function, then you could develop TMJ disorder. Over time, this could even mean trouble fully opening and closing your mouth! Warning signs may include headaches, migraines, jaw pain, a popping or crackling sensation in the jaw, and aches in the neck and shoulders. Causes may vary, but could include tooth loss, injury to the face or jaw, stress, or dental misalignment.
The Link to Bruxism
Bruxism, in which we grind and clench our teeth at night, is a factor as well. When we grind our teeth, we could impact the then jaw joints. Likewise, untreated TMJ disorder could lead to teeth grinding as well. Over time, this grinding and clenching could crack, chip, or wear down teeth, increasing the risk of complications like tooth decay and dental infection, and even boosting the likelihood of tooth loss. Warning signs may include tooth sensitivity, toothaches, and also headaches and jaw pain.
Orthodontics Treatment
To ease strain, our team may provide orthodontic treatment. With braces or clear aligners, we can correct crooked, crowded, or overlapping teeth. This relieves pressure, so you enjoy a drop in TMD symptoms.
Restorative Options
Sometimes addressing balance and fighting strain means placing one or more dental restoration. For example, a crown can be used to lengthen worn down teeth, repair damage, and help correct imbalance.
Oral Appliances
Then most common treatment option is actually an oral appliance. Created based on detailed impressions and measurements taken of your smile, the device will be worn like a mouthguard. The appliance then repositions the jaw to ease strain, and if your grind your teeth, prevent further damage by placing a barrier between upper and lower teeth. If you have any questions about treating TMD and bruxism, then contact our team today.
OUR HOUSTON, TX DENTIST’S OFFICE TALKS TMD TREATMENT
At our Houston, TX dentist’s office, our team wants you to enjoy optimal bite function, avoiding issues that develop due to stress or strain. Find out more about treating issues like TMJ disorder by calling Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry at (281) 974-4494.
