Dr. Brent Blaylock offers complete restorative dental services, including diagnosis and treatment for complex adult dental problems, including temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Commonly called TMJ, a temporomandibular disorder is often the result of an imbalance in the bite which can lead to not only painful symptoms, but damage to the jaw joint(s), teeth and/or gums.
Dr. Blaylock, a trusted dentist in Durham NC, has extensive post-graduate training in the treatment of bite disorders and applies the Dawson Academy principles of complete dentistry when recommending and providing TMJ treatment in Durham. Complete dentistry focuses on a thorough examination of all parts of the occlusal system, looking for signs of instability that can be the underlying cause of dental health concerns. Identifying dental problems with a holistic approach improves both results and the patient experience.
The successful treatment of TMJ is important for long-term dental health and a functional bite.
TMJ Treatment in Durham, NC
One of the most commonly misdiagnosed dental problems, temporomandibular disorders (TMD) affects millions of adults who often have unexplained toothaches, facial pain, and headaches. Commonly referred to by patients as “TMJ”, TMD is a complex group of disorders that is often misunderstood by the medical and dental communities.
TMJ can have a variety of causes, most of which are related to an imbalance in the bite which puts undue pressure on the jaw joints. This often results in pain, headaches, and clicking or popping of the jaw point. TMJ can also lead to teeth grinding and/or clenching which can cause damage to the teeth and gums over time.
A functional bite means that all parts of the occlusal system (teeth, gums, and jaw joints) are working together harmoniously. Dr. Blaylock will evaluate all parts of the occlusal system during a thorough dental exam and recommend appropriate treatment to address dental problems affecting the bite.
Mouthguard and Splint Therapy
As a conservative option, your dentist in Durham, NC, will often recommend the use of a bite guard to alleviate TMJ disorder symptoms or a dental splint. A bite guard or splint is often the first step, used early in treatment and not needed as a long-term solution. A dental split can be helpful to help identify a comfortable and stable bite position.
Bite Correction Therapy
This process is a series of adjustments made to the teeth, which may include:
- Removing tooth structure
- Applying dental crowns or porcelain veneers
- Orthodontic treatment
- Implant dentistry
- Orthodontics
If the teeth are not in the proper position, orthodontics may be needed to reposition the teeth, allowing them to fit together harmoniously. Dr. Blaylock will coordinate your treatment with traditional or invisible braces through a local specialist.
Restorative Dentistry
In cases where teeth have been significantly worn and damaged, restorative dentistry may be needed to bring the teeth back to their proper health and beauty. Dr. Blaylock may use dental crowns, porcelain veneers, or cosmetic bonding to restore teeth.
Signs and Symptoms of TMJ
The signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders can range from mild to severe. The longer the condition goes without treatment, the more severe the symptoms become.
Jaw Pain and Discomfort
One of the primary symptoms of TMJ disorder is pain in the jaw area. This pain may occur on one or both sides of the face and is often worse when chewing, talking, or opening your mouth wide. Some people experience pain that radiates to their neck, shoulders, or ears. Depending on how severely the joints are affected, this discomfort may be constant or come and go.
Limited Jaw Movement
TMJ disorder can cause the jaw to feel stiff or locked, making it difficult to open or close your mouth completely. Sometimes, people may experience a temporary “locking” of the jaw, which feels stuck in a certain position. You might also notice a change in how your upper and lower teeth come together when you bite, making eating uncomfortable.
Clicking, Popping, or Grinding Sounds
Another common symptom of TMJ disorder is a clicking, popping, or grinding sound when you move your jaw. These sounds often occur when you chew or yawn. While these noises can be alarming, they aren’t always accompanied by pain. However, if they are, it may indicate that the joint or the surrounding muscles are irritated or misaligned.
Headaches and Ear Pain
TMJ disorder is known to cause headaches, which typically start near the temples. These headaches can be similar to tension headaches, which may occur frequently, sometimes daily. Additionally, people with TMJ disorder may experience pain or a feeling of pressure in their ears, which is sometimes mistaken for an ear infection. This ear pain can occur even if there is no problem with your hearing.
Facial Swelling or Tenderness
Some individuals with TMJ disorder may experience swelling or tenderness on one or both sides of their face. This swelling is usually mild but can make the area around the jawline feel sore to the touch. The muscles around the jaw may also feel tired after talking or chewing for long periods.
Misaligned Bite
A misaligned bite, where the upper and lower teeth don’t meet properly, is another symptom of TMJ disorder. This can make chewing difficult or uncomfortable. You might feel like your teeth are not fitting together correctly or your bite has shifted. This can lead to uneven wear on the teeth and even cause tooth pain over time.
TMJ Causes
One common cause of TMJ disorder is injury or trauma to the jaw, head, or neck. Accidents, such as a blow to the face or a car crash, can damage the joints or muscles around the jaw. This kind of trauma may lead to jaw misalignment, straining the TMJ and resulting in pain and difficulty with movement.
Teeth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism, is another major contributor to TMJ disorder. Many people grind their teeth when stressed or while sleeping. This continuous grinding puts pressure on the jaw muscles and joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and even damage to the TMJ over time.
Jaw misalignment is also a frequent cause of TMJ problems. If your upper and lower teeth don’t fit together properly, it can stress the joints. Misalignment can occur for various reasons, such as missing teeth or crooked teeth. This uneven pressure can wear down the TMJ and lead to discomfort.
Arthritis is another potential cause of TMJ disorder. Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the cartilage in the jaw joints, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. If left untreated, arthritis in the TMJ can worsen over time.
Stress is also a contributing factor. People often clench their jaws or tighten their facial muscles when they’re stressed without realizing it. This prolonged tension can strain the TMJ, leading to inflammation and pain.
Additionally, poor posture can negatively impact the jaw. Slouching or leaning forward for long periods can affect the alignment of the neck and spine, indirectly affecting the TMJ. Bad habits, such as chewing gum excessively, biting your nails, or chewing on tough foods, can also increase the risk of developing TMJ disorder.
TMJ Treatment FAQs
TMJ can be a debilitating condition that negatively impacts your daily life. Learn more by reading the answers to these commonly asked questions.
Is TMJ treatment painful?
No. TMJ treatments are not painful. Some TMJ treatment options may not require surgery or invasive procedures. Even with oral surgery, your oral surgeon or dentist will use anesthesia so you do not feel pain.
How long does TMJ treatment last?
There are many TMJ treatment options. Some may be more of a process than others, depending on the severity of your TMJ issues. For example, you will need to wear night guards indefinitely; whereas bite alignment procedures take a visit or two, with results lasting a lifetime. Your results may vary.
Is TMJ treatment expensive?
TMJ treatment is an umbrella term for a list of procedures that doctors and dentists use to fix jaw issues. Most TMJ treatments are not that expensive and are common treatments, such as crowns or porcelain veneers. We reserve the more expensive treatments for severe TMJ issues. This can include orthodontics and oral surgery.
What is the main cause of TMJ?
Medical professionals do not completely understand the main cause of TMJ disorder. However, dentists, medical doctors, and TMJ specialists believe multiple factors can cause TMJ disorder. TMJ specialists believe that jaw injury, teeth grinding, arthritis, and stress can contribute to TMJ disorder.
Additionally, misalignment of the jaw or teeth and conditions that affect the muscles and nerves in the face and jaw can also contribute to TMJ disorder. An evaluation by a dentist or TMJ specialist can help identify the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder and provide appropriate treatment options.
When should I see a doctor about TMJ?
You should consider seeing a doctor about TMJ if you experience persistent symptoms such as jaw pain, tenderness or clicking in the jaw, and difficulty or discomfort when opening or closing the mouth. Ear pain, headaches, and neck pain are also symptoms you should not want to take lightly.
These symptoms can be signs of a TMJ disorder. You should also seek medical attention if you have any problems with chewing or biting or if you have a sudden or severe change in your bite. Consult a dentist or doctor with experience in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders.