Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder Treatment in Centreville, VA
Do you frequently experience jaw pain, clicking or popping noises when opening your mouth, or even ear discomfort? You could have a Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder, and at Centreville Dental Wellness Center, we can help you resolve the issue with non-invasive treatment options.
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a group of conditions that affect the jaw muscles, nerves and temporomandibular joint on either one or both sides of the head. The discomfort and pain associated with TMJ disorders can be either constant or intermittent, may last for many years and can be severe.
The temporomandibular joint rotates and slides in front of the ears on both sides of the head. The joint is composed of the lower jaw, or mandible, and the temporal bone of the skull.
There are three recognized TMJ conditions. Myofacial pain is the most common condition. People suffering from this form of TMJ may experience pain and discomfort in the muscles related to jaw movement. Other types of TMJ conditions include internal derangement, which may be caused by a dislocated jaw or displaced disc in the joint of the jaw, and arthritis, which involves inflammatory and degenerative joint conditions. Over 10 million Americans suffer from one of these conditions.
Our Centreville dental practice is experienced at treating and correcting TMJ conditions. Most TMJ treatments can be done at home and do not require surgery.
Appliance Therapy for TMJ
Appliance therapy uses a splint or mouth guard to reduce stress on the jaw, cover the interferences that affect the bit and encourage the optimal functioning of muscles. The dentist can fit a custom appliance to improve the bite and allow the lower mandible to rest properly in the temporomandibular joint socket.
Occlusal equilibration Therapy
Occlusal equilibration therapy is another treatment option for TMJ. This appliance reshapes the teeth’s biting surfaces and eliminates interferences so the mandible can properly close.
Botox for TMJ Treatment
Dr. Rena Vakay offers Botox as a treatment option for patients with TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. Botox is a muscle relaxant that can help alleviate the pain and tension associated with TMJ by reducing muscle activity in the affected area. Dr. Vakay is skilled with using Botox to provide relief from TMJ symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, and jaw stiffness. This treatment is a non-invasive and relatively painless option for those suffering from TMJ.
Get Relief from TMJ Pain today!
Relief from pain is generally achieved when the proper functioning of the muscles is restored. Many patients find immediate relief from appliance or occlusal equilibration therapies.
If the TMJ disorder does not respond to these conservative treatment options or is a result of a structural disorder, more advanced treatment may be necessary. An intra-oral appliance or surgery may be required to treat these cases, but most patients respond positively to more conservative treatments.
-Allan N.
Contact Centreville Dental Wellness Center for TMJ Relief Today!
If you have any questions about TMJ treatment at our practice near Fairfax and Chantilly, or if you would like to request an appointment with our Centreville TMJ doctor, please contact us by email or by calling us at 703-815-0775.