Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that causes the jaw joint to hurt or not move properly. This condition occurs when the jawbone loses its shape, becomes inflamed, or does not work as it should. Most TMJ disorders are caused by injury or stress to the teeth and jaw, but others develop for no apparent reason.
The TMJ Dentist
TMJ dentists specialize in treating patients who suffer from TMJ disorder. They initiate treatments that help to increase the movement of the jaw joint and ease pain and discomfort caused by problems with the temporomandibular joint.
Treatment by Our TMJ Dentist
To begin, you will need to answer questions about your medical history and provide information about your symptoms. Then, you will be asked to perform a series of exercises to provide information about your range of motion. You will then be asked to return to our office for a follow-up appointment to see if treatment is working and also to discuss any additional treatment options that might be appropriate for you.
If you are experiencing pain in your jaw, our TMJ dentist can help you with:
- Aching or locking jaw joints
- A clicking sound when opening or closing your jaw
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Earaches or ringing in the ears
- Headaches or neck pain
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
- Pain between your shoulder blades
- Tightness in your neck and shoulders that radiates toward your head
The purpose of the treatment is to help relieve pain in any part of your head, face, neck, or shoulders. It can also help with chewing problems caused by a damaged joint. Our TMJ dentist can make it easier for you to open your mouth wider and may also make it easier for you to chew.
During this process, you will be provided with a bite splint that is worn at night while you are sleeping. This device helps realign your teeth at night. It also opens up new pathways for nerve impulses to travel overnight so that it relieves tension in the head and neck area during sleep.
The device is worn only while sleeping.
Reach out to our dental practice in Walnut Creek, CA, to have a consultation with our Dentist Walnut Creek CA. Call us at (925) 937-2273 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.