TMJ Disorder Treatments
TMJ Treatments Casula
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, or simply TMJ/TMD, is a pain in the jaw joint and muscles that can be caused by several medical problems.
TMJ disorders can cause pain in the head, neck, face, and ears.
One may also experience a jaw that is locked in position or difficult to open, biting problems, and jaw clicking or popping sounds when biting.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
Symptoms of TMJ disorders include:
- Pain or tenderness in one or both jaws
- Pain in and around your ear
- Difficulty or pain while chewing
- Facial pain
- Jaw joint locking, making it hard to open or close your mouth
TMJ problems can also cause a jaw clicking or grating feeling when opening your mouth or chewing.
If there’s no pain or restriction of movement associated with your jaw clicking, you probably won’t need TMJ treatment.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
Causes of TMJ disorders are as follows:
- Arthritis
- Jaw dislocation
- Facial injury
- Improper tooth and jaw alignment
- Stress and teeth grinding
Treatment for TMJ Problems
While there is no cure for TMJ disorders, there are different treatments that may significantly reduce your symptoms. Your Casula dentist may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
Medication
Get rid of muscle spasm and pain by applying moist heat or taking medications, like muscle relaxants, aspirin, other over-the-counter painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs.
Wear protective appliances
This reduces the negative effects of tooth clenching and grinding by wearing a protective nightguard or splint.
Relax
Relaxation techniques may help control muscle tension in the jaw. Your Casula dentist may suggest you seek training or counselling to help eliminate stress.
TMJ Disorder Treatments in Casula
If you have the symptoms mentioned above or suspect you have TMJ problems, please call us and schedule an appointment.
Visit your Casula dentist today!
If you want to know more about TMJ disorder treatments in Casula, please call us on (02) 9199 9695 or request your appointment online.
We are located at Shop 17A Casula Mall, 1 Ingham Drive in Casula.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is there a way to prevent TMJ disorders?
- If you have occasional episodes of jaw pain, avoid chewing gum or biting on hard objects, like pens or fingernails.
- Avoid eating hard or chewy foods. Support your lower jaw with your hand when yawning.
- Avoid taking large bites when eating.
- Regularly massage your jaw, cheeks, and temple muscles.
- Apply moist heat if you feel spasms.
- Maintain a good sleeping posture with neck support.
- Do not put your phone between your shoulder and neck when taking calls.
- See your Casula dentist if you grind your teeth at night or often find yourself clenching your jaw.