Do you often find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth? Do you suffer from chronic jaw pain?
If this sounds familiar, you may have a temporomandibular joint disorder. An experienced restorative dentist in Hoffman Estates, Dr. Dhara Patel can work with you individually to evaluate the condition of your teeth, gums, and jaw joints before recommending any necessary treatment to restore dental health.
The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull, and pain can arise in the jaw joint and the muscles that control the jaw when there is damage, malocclusion, or stress within the joint. The common symptoms of a bite disorder can damage the teeth and make it difficult to bite, chew and even speak comfortably. But what common symptoms accompany bite disorders, and how can they be treated effectively?
Causes of TMJ
There are multiple common causes of TMJ disorders which can include:
- Teeth grinding or jaw clenching
- Trauma to the jaw
- Crooked teeth
- Malocclusion
- Jaw structural irregularities
Patients with these conditions are more prone to developing TMJ disorders because they cause an imbalance and can put the jaw joint under pressure. This muscle tension and joint dysfunction can be painful and may result in more complex patient problems.
Symptoms of TMJ
Common TMJ symptoms include:
- Jaw pain
- Facial pain
- Difficulty chewing
- Headaches
- Shoulder pain
- Back pain
- Muscle spasms
- Teeth grinding
- Earaches
If you have noticed any of these symptoms, call 847.660.6603. You may have a TMJ disorder or another oral health problem. Our professional team can offer comprehensive treatment to alleviate TMJ pain and other symptoms.
TMJ Treatment in Hoffman Estates, IL
We offer several TMJ treatment options to help alleviate painful symptoms of TMJ disorders. They include:
Lifestyle Changes
When TMJ symptoms are mild, at-home options may help alleviate TMJ pain. Some of these solutions include:
- Jaw exercises
- Relaxing your facial muscles
- Sleeping on your side
- Using an ice pack in a clean cloth
- Eating soft foods to help your jaw rest
Oral Appliances
Dr. Patel offers TMJ analysis to patients to determine if the upper and lower teeth come together when biting. She also offers oral appliances to keep teeth from touching and causing issues. Oral appliances act like mouth guards, covering and protecting teeth from further wear and tear. This treatment can be worn overnight or during stressful situations. Oral appliances take the pressure off the jaw and prevent teeth from clenching and grinding.
If teeth have become worn down or damaged due to a TMJ disorder, Dr. Patel will help coordinate restorative and cosmetic treatment. She offers dental crowns, porcelain veneers, dental implants, and more to restore the form and function of your teeth and gums.
Botox® for TMJ
Botox has been proven to offer patients effective relief from TMJ disorder symptoms. Dr. Patel can offer this treatment option and is an experienced dentist treating TMJ with advanced modalities. Using Botox, Dr. Patel can relax jaw muscles and allow the joints to move more freely and without tension. This relieves common pain and discomfort in the jaw, neck, and head from constant muscle tension. Botox may be combined with other options for a comprehensive approach to your needs and a better outcome.
Choosing a trained and experienced dentist for Botox injections is an important part of your decision. Proper site injection is key to your result for both symptom relief and the appearance of your smile. Dr. Patel will work with you to achieve the best possible result using Botox.
TMJ FAQs
How long can a TMJ flare-up last?
TMJ flare-ups may present themselves anytime and stay anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Flare-ups occur frequently, and for extended periods, they can seriously affect a person’s life. The longevity and frequency of flare-ups vary for every patient individually.
What happens if TMJ is left untreated?
If left untreated, TMJ can lead to chronic jaw pain. It may affect a patient’s day-to-day life due to causing daily headaches, pain, and discomfort.
How do you relax your jaw with TMJ?
The most common way to relax your jaw with TMJ is to progressively introduce your jaw and mouth to movement. This means to begin opening your mouth with small movements multiple times and slowly progressing to larger movements. Patients may also put their fingers on top of their bottom teeth and push down or apply pressure for 30 seconds. This warms up jaw muscles and joints in hopes that they move easier or cause less pain.
Schedule A Dental Exam Today
Call Best Dental Spa for comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for TMJ disorders at 847.660.6603. You can also schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel online.
