TMJ/TMD Treatment – Topeka, KS
You Don’t Have to Live with Jaw Pain
If you place your finger right in front of your ear and open your mouth, you may feel the movement of the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ. This joint makes it possible for you to speak and chew, but if it becomes strained or injured, it can cause a lot of pain and can get in the way of the simplest oral tasks. Our team at Westport Dental can diagnose and treat different types of TMJ disorders, so give us a call if you’re looking for a way to escape jaw pain for good.
Request an appointmentWhy Choose Westport Dental for TMJ/TMD Treatment?
- Customized Occlusal Splint Therapy
- Safe, Efficient Occlusal Adjustments
- State-of-the-Art TENS Machine
Signs of TMJ/TMD
TMJ disorder can have different symptoms depending on the root cause and how severe it is. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent or recurring jaw pain
- Aching pain in or around your ear
- Facial pain
- A locked jaw
- Having trouble chewing certain foods
- A clicking sound or grating sensation when opening the mouth
We recommend calling our office for an appointment if you notice any of these symptoms; we can narrow down the possible causes and suggest appropriate treatments for your problem.
Treatment for TMJ/TMD
While the symptoms of TMJ disorder can sometimes go away on their own, more often than not you’ll need a professional’s help. There are a few different ways we can treat a TMJ disorder:
- Equilibration/Occlusal Adjustments: By reshaping your teeth so that they come together evenly, we can take some of the pressure off of your jaw joints.
- Occlusal Splints: An occlusal splint can adjust your lower jaw to keep it in a more comfortable position, allowing your TMJ to rest and recover.
- TENS Machine Treatment: A TENS machine uses low-frequency voltage electrical currents to relax the jaw muscles; it also blocks pain signals to your brain so that you no longer feel the discomfort from your TMJ disorder.
FAQ
Can TMJ symptoms go away on their own, or is professional help necessary?
While some TMJ symptoms may resolve on their own, professional help is often necessary for effective and lasting relief. If you experience persistent or recurring symptoms, seeking the assistance of our experienced team at Westport Dental can provide proper diagnosis and tailored treatment.
What are the signs of TMJ/TMD, and when should I seek treatment?
Common signs of TMJ/TMD include persistent or recurring jaw pain, aching pain around the ear, facial pain, a locked jaw, difficulty chewing certain foods, and clicking or grating sensations when opening the mouth. If you experience these symptoms, it is recommended to schedule an appointment at Westport Dental for evaluation and appropriate treatment.
What treatment options are available for TMJ/TMD at Westport Dental?
Treatment for TMJ/TMD at Westport Dental includes equilibration/occlusal adjustments, reshaping teeth to alleviate pressure on the jaw joints. Occlusal splints are used to adjust the lower jaw for a more comfortable position, allowing the TMJ to rest and recover. Additionally, a TENS machine is utilized, using low-frequency voltage electrical currents to relax jaw muscles and block pain signals.
How does the TENS machine work in TMJ/TMD treatment?
The TENS machine used at Westport Dental employs low-frequency voltage electrical currents to relax jaw muscles and block pain signals to the brain. This helps alleviate discomfort associated with TMJ/TMD, contributing to a more comfortable and pain-free experience for patients.