The temporomandibular joint, commonly referred to as the TMJ, plays a crucial role in your daily life, allowing you to perform essential functions like speaking, chewing and yawning. However, when this joint faces stress, injury or misalignment, it can lead to a condition known as TMJ disorder or TMD.
TMJ disorder can be triggered by various factors, including:
- Stress
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Arthritis in the TMJ
- Head, neck or jaw trauma
Some common signs of TMD include:
- Jaw and facial pain
- Clicking or popping sounds when moving your jaw
- An inability to fully open your mouth
- A locked jaw
- Pain while chewing
- Discomfort in your neck, shoulders or ears
- Frequent tension headaches or migraines
Our TMJ Treatment
If you suspect you have TMD, seeking professional help is essential to regaining your oral function and quality of life. Our experienced dentists can diagnose the root cause of your TMJ disorder and recommend suitable treatment options. The choice of treatment depends on the underlying cause and the severity of your condition. Potential treatments may include jaw and facial relaxation exercises, physical therapy, lifestyle adjustments, restorative dental procedures, the use of a mouthguard or nightguard or in more severe cases, jaw surgery.
Contact us today by calling or texting Schneider Family Dentistry at 240-654-3555 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Adam Schneider, Dr. Katie Staub or Dr. Thomas Tran and take the first step toward effective TMJ treatment in Gaithersburg, Maryland. We are here to provide you with the relief and guidance you need to regain control of your jaw’s health and function.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Treatment
What is TMJ disorder?
TMJ disorder affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw to the skull. It can cause pain, difficulty opening and closing the mouth, jaw clicking and even headaches or ear discomfort.
How do you diagnose TMJ problems?
Diagnosis involves a physical exam, checking your jaw movement, bite alignment and listening for clicking or popping sounds. In some cases, we may use digital imaging to get a detailed view of the joint and surrounding structures.
What treatments are available for TMJ?
We offer conservative options such as night guards to reduce grinding, bite adjustments and referrals to physical therapy when needed. These approaches aim to relieve stress on the joint and restore comfort and function.
Will TMJ treatment help with headaches?
Yes. Many patients experience chronic tension or migraine-like headaches due to jaw misalignment or muscle strain. Addressing the root cause with TMJ treatment can reduce or eliminate this discomfort.
Do you offer TMJ treatment in Gaithersburg, Maryland?
Yes. We provide TMJ treatment in Gaithersburg, Maryland, offering effective, non-invasive treatments designed to relieve pain and improve jaw function.