TMJ Treatment in Dallas

What are the symptoms of TMJ?

Though the actual cause is unknown, many dental professionals believe it to be caused by stress, teeth grinding or other dental issues such as crooked teeth. It may also be due to arthritis in the jaw, or a dislocation of the joint. Symptoms of TMJ include tenderness or pain in the jaw and face, a clicking noise in the jaw when chewing, poor mobility in the jaw that results in an inability to open your mouth widely, swelling in the face and the jaw locking when you attempt to open or close your mouth.

How is TMJ diagnosed?

In order to diagnose TMJ, your dentist will ask you a series of questions regarding your symptoms and perform a thorough examination to determine if there is any inflammation or tenderness. They will also check your jaw mobility and examine your bite and teeth to determine if there are any problems that may be causing the issue. Your dentist may also take x-rays of your mouth in order to get a better view of your jawbone.

What is the treatment for TMJ?

TMJ has several treatments that may be effective, depending on the cause of your particular case. In instances where teeth grinding is the main cause, your dentist may recommend a treatment plan to fix any issues causing you to grind your teeth, as well as a night guard. Dental treatments such as crowns, bridges and even braces may help to correct any dental issues causing the problem. If stress is an issue, your dentist may recommend stress-relieving exercise such as yoga, relaxation techniques or you may be given a prescription for muscle relaxers. You will also most likely be advised to avoid beverages containing caffeine, chewing gum and foods that may be difficult to chew.

If you believe that you might be suffering from TMJ, call our dental office today at 214-328-3595 to schedule an appointment. Our staff has dealt with a number of TMJ cases and can help prescribe a treatment plan that will alleviate your discomfort.