Relieve Jaw Tension With TMJ Treatment in Cave Creek

If you haven’t had an anatomy class, you may not know that your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your jaw to your skull. You’ll certainly know if they’ve become painful and inflamed, though, because you use them for everyday activities like eating and laughing. Fortunately, we can relieve your pain with TMJ treatment in Cave Creek, AZ.

Our treatment will:

  • Use a drug-free method to relieve pressure on your jaw
  • Assess your bite and other factors that contribute to your pain
  • Alleviate symptoms like headaches and earaches
  • Prevent pain from spreading to other areas

Call us at 480-420-9562 if you’re experiencing TMJ pain or other symptoms. Visit Aesthetic Family Dentistry for relief.

Eliminate Pressure With a Custom Night Guard

Start With an Examination
Start With an Examination

During every dental exam, we look for signs of TMJ trouble, like a teeth grinding habit that can irritate your joints and damage your teeth. If we find anything, we will likely recommend a custom-made night guard or other oral appliance. A night guard will prevent you from clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth. It also relieves pressure on your jaw so your inflamed joints can heal.

We’ll fit you for a custom night guard by making impressions of your teeth. Unlike a store-bought night guard, it will fit you perfectly. With a custom fit, you won’t be tempted to leave it on your nightstand instead of wearing it. Dr. Roderick will also determine whether there are any contributing factors that may need treatment. For example, we may be able to fix a bite problem with Invisalign orthodontics.

Know the Symptoms
Know the Symptoms

While jaw pain is the primary symptom of TMJ disorders (TMD), it often comes with other associated issues. Patients may experience facial swelling — particularly around the jaw area — as well as difficulty opening the mouth. Additionally, TMD can manifest as frequent, unexplained headaches or earaches, and pain in the neck and shoulders. These symptoms, when occurring alongside jaw pain, warrant a professional evaluation.

Call 480-420-9562 or schedule online to arrange an appointment if you are having those symptoms. Remember, Aesthetic Family Dentistry is here to provide TMJ treatment in Cave Creek, AZ and ongoing general dental care.

Common Questions About TMJ Treatment / Teeth Grinding

Does TMJ treatment work?

TMJ problems typically won’t go away without treatment. TMJ pain is usually caused when the joints in your jaw become inflamed. This commonly occurs because of two habits that put your jaw under pressure: clenching and teeth grinding. We can make a custom mouthguard for you that will stop these behaviors. Then your jaw can heal. You may also be helped by orthodontic treatment like Invisalign, which can correct bite problems.

 

How long does TMJ treatment take?

We understand you want to end the pain caused by a TMJ disorder as soon as you can. The truth is that treatment can take weeks or months depending on the severity of your situation and what needs to be done. For most patients, an oral appliance is a perfect solution to this problem. For others, orthodontics or restorations may be needed to realign teeth to eliminate grinding in the long term.

 

How does a mouthguard help with TMJ problems?

Because these oral devices fit over your upper and lower teeth, they keep you from involuntarily clenching and grinding your teeth together while you sleep. This can alleviate the pressure on your jaw, reduce painful symptoms of TMJ disorder, allow the joint to heal naturally, and protect your tooth enamel from damage.