TMJ Treatment

At South Dayton Smiles, it is our goal to take care of all of your oral health needs. This includes your temporomandibular joint, usually shortened to TMJ. If you have problems with your TMJ, it can be difficult for you to speak, chew, and swallow. We try to identify and rectify these issues as quickly as possible.

Learn more about how South Dayton Smiles in Miamisburg can address TMJ disorders.

How Does the TMJ Work?

The temporomandibular joint is a ball-and-socket joint on either side of your jaw. Each joint has a disc that separates the ball and socket. The disc’s job is to cushion the joint as it opens and closes.

If any problems prevent these muscles and ligaments from working properly, they can lead to a temporomandibular joint disorder. If you have a hard time opening or closing your jaw, it can significantly impact your quality of life. 

What Are the Causes of TMJ Issues?

There are several common reasons why people develop issues with the TMJ. They include:

• Chronic arthritis
• A joint dislocation
• A traumatic injury, such as a sports accident or a motor vehicle collision
• Alignment issues between your teeth and jaw
• Teeth grinding and stress, usually called bruxism

The exact signs and symptoms of TMJ can vary depending on the cause of the condition. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Pain and discomfort around the muscles of the jaw
• Clicking or popping noises that take place when you open and close your mouth
• Difficulty moving certain parts of your jaw

The sooner this condition is diagnosed, the faster it can be treated. This can make a significant difference in your overall prognosis. After this condition has been properly diagnosed, the treatment process can begin. 

What Is the Treatment Process?

It is important to take a well-rounded approach to treat TMJ disorders. At South Dayton Smiles, we will customize your treatment process to meet your needs. Some of the most common components of our treatment plan include:

• Recommending that you eat softer foods
• Taking steps to avoid biting your nails
• Avoiding chewing gum
• Using ice and heat to reduce inflammation
• Practicing relaxation techniques that can help you control the tension in your jaw
• Corrective exercises that can strengthen your jaw muscles
• Using a bite plate or a nightguard to prevent tooth grinding

There could be situations where we refer you to a professional for a more in-depth evaluation and treatment process. For example, orthodontic treatment can be helpful in some cases.

Our primary goal is to develop a treatment plan that is appropriate for the suspected cause of the condition. This will put you in the best possible position to make a full recovery.

TMJ Disorder Treatment Options in Miamisburg

If you would like to learn more about how we can help you with TMJ treatment, please contact South Dayton Smiles today at (937) 433-5133. We understand that it can be frustrating to deal with jaw issues, and we will work with you to develop a treatment plan that can help you recover.