If you have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, then you may be all too familiar with the jaw pain it causes. You might be looking for ways you can get it treated, but who should you call? While you might want to reach out to your primary care physician, your dentist might be a better option. Here’s more about this condition and why your oral healthcare provider can be the person for the job.
What Exactly Is TMJ Disorder?
As a quick refresher, your TMJs are your jaw joints. They help you open and close your mouth, but they can become irritated and cause discomfort. There are several possible reasons this can happen, such as teeth grinding or clenching, jaw injury, or even misalignment. No matter, the pain you feel in your face can bring down your overall quality of life. It may flare up, but you can also have trouble eating as the joints may lock.
Why Should You Visit Your Dentist for TMJ Disorder?
The symptoms above are just a few that can happen with TMJ disorder. It’s only natural that you’ll want to ease them, but thankfully, your dentist is here to help! While you may think of these professionals as just “teeth doctors,” They are much more than that.
In order to give their patients high-quality care, they need to look at the bigger picture of a mouth. This includes the jaw, so they can help you spot signs of this condition and diagnose the problem. Better yet, they are trained in the anatomy of it and can identify an unhealthy bite.
How Can Your Dentist Treat TMJ Disorder?
With that said, you might wonder how your dentist will treat your TMJ disorder. It largely depends on what’s causing the issue. By taking a look at your unique case, they can come up with a game plan to relieve your discomfort.
If they see that malocclusion is the reason, then they may recommend restorative adjustments to slightly alter certain teeth. This can help your dental arches come together more fluidly. Clear aligners might also be an option that you can consider to give you a healthier bite.
Another choice you may have is a customized oral appliance. You’ll wear this special device at night to prevent teeth grinding and clenching, which is often a cause for TMJ disorder. Over time, it can improve your symptoms and reduce the discomfort you feel.
In the end, dentists take care of more than just teeth. They can help you get back the comfortable jaw you deserve. That way, you can show off your smile and have an easier time eating as well.
About the Author
Dr. Mariya Barnett earned her dental degree from the University of Michigan. She is here to help patients in the Dallas community who are struggling with their TMJ disorder by offering effective treatments. By tailoring a plan for you, Dr. Barnett can give you lasting relief and protect your oral health. If you want to learn how she can help you, schedule an appointment or call her office at (469) 874-0469.
