TMJ Disorders
What Is the TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the joint that connects the mandible and the cranium. It is one of the most used joints of the body.
When the bone, cartilage, muscles, or nerves around the TMJ do not function properly, this is known as a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
When the bone, cartilage, muscles, or nerves around the TMJ do not function properly, this is known as a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
TMD Symptoms
/
- Sore or tender jaw
- Clicking or popping of the jaw
- Lockjaw
- Limited jaw movement
- Headaches
- Neck pain
- Earaches
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
TMD Risk Factors
Poor Dental Alignment
When teeth cannot find a comfortable resting position, they shift and clench during sleep.Excessive Stress
Excessive stress is another factor in bruxism and TMD. People may grind their teeth while asleep or awake if there is no other outlet for their stress.Age
TMD symptoms can affect people of all age groups. However, many TMD patients tend to be between the ages of 20 and 40.Gender
While men can develop temporomandibular disorders, women are more likely to develop problems with their temporomandibular joints.If you suffer from any TMJ symptoms and risk factors are present, it's important that you speak with a dentist about treatment.
The Effects of TMD Can Be Widespread
TMJ problems can cause a range of issues. With help from our Mississippi dental team, you can reduce these risks and manage TMJ disorder. Some temporomandibular joint disorder issues we can help you avoid include:
Prolonged TMJ grinding can cause your teeth to break or chip. Oral appliances act as a protective barrier, keeping this from happening to you in the future.
Over time, clenching your jaw can lead to worn enamel. In fact, our dentist can usually tell if someone has a TMD based on the state of their teeth.
When you have a temporomandibular joint disorder, you put excessive pressure on your teeth. This can cause them to loosen over time.
Decay can follow damage like breakage and wear. It may even lead to a root canal infection. We can resolve these issues alongside TMJ treatment.
Let's Get Started on Your TMJ Treatment
TMJ is a disorder that directly affects your teeth and gums. Trust your care to dentists who can address your TMD as well as the effects it has had on your oral health.
Dr. Henderson and Dr. Jones are dentists who can help you manage TMJ disorder, as well as resolve issues such as worn teeth or chipped teeth.
In fact, they even offer cosmetic dentistry procedures to refine your smile. We want you to be frank with us about your goals. No matter what you envision for the future of your smile, we are prepared to help you achieve outstanding comfort, excellent oral health, and a smile you can feel proud to share.
To find treatment for your temporomandibular joint, teeth, or gums, contact our welcoming Mississippi office online or call
(601) 267-5624
Carthage Patients Recommend Our Care
"I was very pleased. Dr Henderson and staff were all very nice. I was so happy that he was able to help me...I am so very thankful! It was a great experience. He was very concerned about my comfort and explained everything." Johnna Barnes
Diagnosing a TMJ Disorder
Seeing a dentist will allow you to discuss TMD symptoms and get the care you need. During a dental exam at our Carthage, MS, practice, we will take x-rays of your temporomandibular joint. We can also discuss your general health and medical history. After assessing your situation, we can determine the right dentistry procedures to treat your jaw issues.
Night Guard for TMJ Treatment for Teeth Grinding
For many patients, the first and most conservative treatment option is the use of a night guard. This is ideal for people who grind their teeth at night, which contributes to problems with their TMJ.
How Does a Night Guard Work?
Also known as a splint or bite guard, a night guard is a mouthpiece that the patient wears at night. The night guard prevents the upper and lower teeth from touching. When the patient grinds their teeth, the pressure on the jaw is relieved.
Keep in mind that a night guard may only be the first step in addressing temporomandibular joint issues. If your symptoms are relieved, additional dental procedures will not be necessary. If you still experience TMJ symptoms after wearing your night guard, we can reassess the issue so we can properly provide relief to your jaw.
Treatments for Bruxism
/
Treating bruxism typically involves orthodontic care such as Invisalign®. Stress relief and relaxation techniques may also play a role in remedying this problem. Dentists need to tailor treatment options to the patient, which is why it's important to visit our practice in Carthage, MS, for a consultation.
Advanced TMD Treatments
When Is Advanced Care Needed?
More invasive procedures for TMJ disorders are necessary when a night guard is ineffective or the issues that are present are too complicated to be addressed with more conservative therapies. This may include a full mouth reconstruction, trigger point injections, and even surgery.
Tailored to the Patient
As we individualize treatment options to your needs, we can also answer any questions you may have about the process.
"I would recommend Dr. Henderson’s practice to anyone! I have been going here since I was a little girl and now I have all three of my children going. I recently took my two year old for her first dentist appointment and she loved it and can’t wait to go back! The staff here are wonderful, very helpful, and make you feel like family as soon as you walk through the door." Haley Johnson, 5-Star Review
Paying for TMJ Treatment & Other Dental Solutions
We accept most dental insurance plans. Most policies will cover at least a portion of the treatments used to address TMJ disorder. If you are uninsured, or if you need help budgeting for out-of-pocket dental expenses, we also work with CareCredit®, a third-party lender who can allow you to pay in low-interest installments. During your consultation, we will be glad to determine what your insurance policy will cover and help you explore financing options.
