What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge that connects your lower jaw to your skull, allowing you to open, close, and move your mouth for everyday activities like talking, chewing, and yawning. When this joint or its surrounding muscles become inflamed, strained, or misaligned, it can lead to a condition known as TMJ disorder (or TMD). Common symptoms include jaw pain, clicking or popping when chewing, headaches, and facial discomfort.
At Legacy Dental Care, our Blaine dentists understand how disruptive TMJ disorder can be. We offer a range of non-surgical treatment options designed to alleviate discomfort, improve jaw function, and restore a better quality of life. From custom oral appliances to therapeutic BOTOX® injections, our team will strive to create a personalized treatment plan that gives you the relief you deserve.
What Causes TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder can stem from a variety of factors. In many cases, more than one contributing issue may be at play.*
Common triggers and risk factors for TMJ disorder include:
- Teeth grinding (bruxism): Chronic grinding or clenching – often during sleep – can put stress on the jaw muscles and TMJ.
- Jaw misalignment or bite irregularities: When your upper and lower teeth don’t meet properly, it can place uneven pressure on the TMJ.
- Arthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the jaw joint just as they do other joints in the body.
- Injury or trauma: Direct trauma to the jaw, such as a sports injury or car accident, may damage the joint or its surrounding tissues.
- Stress: Emotional stress can lead to habitual jaw clenching and muscle tension.
Because no two cases are exactly alike, our dentists take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing TMJ disorder. We also use advanced technology – namely the PreXion3D Cone Beam CT imaging system – to assess your bite, jaw movement, and joint condition.
What Are My TMJ Disorder Treatment Options?
Fortunately, many TMJ disorders can be managed with conservative, non-surgical therapies. At Legacy Dental Care, our approach to treatment focuses on relieving your discomfort, minimizing stress on the joint, and correcting any underlying functional issues. Your personalized plan may include one or more of the following:
Custom Oral Appliances (Night Guards or Splints)
One of the most common and effective treatments for TMJ disorder is a custom-made oral appliance. These devices, typically worn at night, can prevent teeth grinding and reduce tension on the jaw. Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards, custom splints are designed specifically for your bite and jaw alignment, generally offering better protection and comfort.
BOTOX®
In certain cases, BOTOX® injections can be used therapeutically to relax overactive jaw muscles. By easing muscle tension, BOTOX® may reduce jaw pain, headaches, and clenching. This approach can be particularly helpful for patients whose symptoms are rooted in muscular overuse or chronic bruxism.
Bite Adjustment or Restorative Dentistry
If your TMJ disorder stems from bite misalignment, our dentists may recommend adjusting the way your teeth come together. This can involve reshaping specific tooth surfaces or, in more complex cases, providing restorative treatments to improve jaw function and balance.
Lifestyle & Behavioral Modifications
Your treatment plan may also include practical recommendations to reduce jaw strain and promote healing. These may involve stress management techniques, physical therapy exercises, jaw massage, posture correction, and dietary changes (such as avoiding hard or chewy foods during flare-ups).
Find Relief From TMJ Disorder
At Legacy Dental Care in Blaine, MN, we take a customized, patient-centered approach to TMJ disorder treatment. By identifying the root cause of your symptoms and offering targeted, non-invasive solutions, our team can help you feel more comfortable and get back to enjoying your daily life.
If you’re experiencing TMJ symptoms or have been diagnosed with TMD in the past, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team.