Your temporomandibular joints are the joints that connect the jawbone to the skull. These joints make it possible to open and close your mouth as well as chew, speak, and swallow. The TMJ system includes the muscles and ligaments as well as the jaw bone. TMJ disorders develop when this system of muscles, ligaments, and bones is disrupted.
Dr. Joseph Thompson diagnoses and treats TMJ problems in his Greeley, Colorado dental office. Call 970.205.9614 or schedule an appointment with Dr. Thompson online. He will help you alleviate the discomfort and stop the progression of dental issues caused by TMJ disorders.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
Some common causes of TMJ disorders include:
- Dislocation
- Injury
- Arthritis
- Jaw and tooth misalignment
- Teeth clenching and grinding
Dr. Thompson will diagnose TMJ before treatment. He checks the joints and muscles of the jaw for the difficulty of motion, tenderness, clicking, and popping. For patients who require more advanced treatment, Dr. Thompson may refer you to a physician or a dental specialist for advanced treatment.
How is TMJ Treated?
To treat TMJ, we recommend small lifestyle changes first. Try these simple remedies at home if you have slight symptoms:
- Eat softer foods
- Avoid chewing gum and biting your nails
- Apply heat packs to painful areas
- Practicing relaxation techniques to alleviate jaw tension
If your symptoms are more severe, we may recommend these treatments:
- Jaw muscle exercises
- Muscle relaxants, analgesics, and anti-inflammatory medication
- Anxiety medications to reduce jaw tension
- A mouthguard or bite plate
In some cases, Dr. Thompson may recommend reshaping the teeth for a more balanced bite. Orthodontic treatments that realign crooked teeth may help lessen TMJ symptoms. Depending on the cause of your TMJ disorder, Dr. Thompson will recommend the appropriate treatment. Feel free to ask him any questions during your consultation with Dr. Thompson. He will be happy to clarify your specific treatment with you.