TMJ disorder, sometimes referred to as TMD, is a jaw joint disorder that can lead to major discomfort with your smile, and could even alter how you open and close your mouth! But we can offer treatment for issues like TMD and bruxism, such as an oral appliance. In today’s blog, your Houston, TX, dentist talks about treating TMJ disorder.
The Causes and Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction
TMJ disorder occurs when the joints connecting your jaw and skull are strained. The disorder could make opening and closing the mouth fully difficult, and could lead to a host of uncomfortable symptoms. For example, you could suffer from frequent headaches or migraines, jaw and facial pain, or a popping or clicking sensation in your jaw. If you experience these symptoms, let us know right away so we can conduct a diagnosis and see what treatments you need. Untreated TMD is also linked to serious complications like bruxism (chronic teeth grinding), so you risk damage to your teeth without action! How does the disorder develop? The causes could vary, but are often linked to issues with the balance of your bite. Tooth loss, injury, misalignment, or complications with the growth and development of the jaw or the arrival of your teeth could lead to imbalance, as could the presence of issues like bruxism. Before we recommend a treatment, we take time to assess the underlying causes of your TMD concerns, so we can choose the best treatment option and restore your smile.
Custom Night Guards
We also have another treatment that can offer relief from both TMJ disorder and bruxism. We will take detailed images and impressions of your smile, and use them to design and custom-fit an oral appliance, one that is worn as you sleep at night. The device will fit comfortably and shift the jaw to prevent symptoms related to TMJ disorder and bruxism. The device also places a barrier between the upper and lower sets of teeth to prevent damaged teeth and worsening symptoms. If you have damaged your teeth as a result of bruxism, then we could offer bonding or even custom crowns to repair your teeth and restore proper balance and beauty to your smile again.
If you have any questions about how our team will diagnose and treat TMJ disorder with options like custom oral appliances, then please reach out to our team today. You deserve a healthy smile, one free of uncomfortable symptoms.
Talk To Your Houston, TX Dentist About Our Removable Appliances
To learn more about easing the discomfort of TMD and bruxism with a custom oral appliance, or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry in Houston, TX at (281)974-4494. Our team wants to ensure you enjoy optimal oral health and a smile that inspires confidence!
