Jaw pain and discomfort can be difficult to live with. And without treatment, jaw disorders can often lead to worsening dental health conditions. Temporomandibular disorders (TMJ) are a common problem that many patients deal with on a regular basis. But with TMJ treatment in Arlington Heights, IL, you could work with your dentist to help alleviate pain and prevent dental damage. Because everyone’s mouth and jaw work differently, your dentist will perform a detailed exam and take X-rays to help determine which course of treatment is right for your bite.
How TMJ Treatment in Arlington Heights, IL, Works
Treating TMJ is all about finding the source of your jaw problems. Jaw disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, such as teeth grinding, muscle tension, and malocclusion. Knowing why your jaw suffers excess pressure can help your dentist create a treatment plan that may be able to help. So, during your consultation, it’s important that you answer questions honestly and mention anything that might be relevant to your oral health.
Nightguards
Custom nightguards are one of the most common ways dentists treat TMJ symptoms. Many patients suffer from jaw disorders due to grinding their teeth at night. A custom nightguard can fit to your bite and help provide some cushion between your teeth. This extra space can help relieve tension in your jaw. It’s also beneficial to help prevent enamel loss caused by excessive grinding.
Bite Correction
When your bite is misaligned, it’s common for your jaw to suffer additional pressure each time you bite down. Over time, this extra pressure can cause your jaw joints to wear down and lose efficiency. Adjusting your bite to have a more even pressure can often help relieve the symptoms of TMJ. Bite correction could include a variety of treatment options, such as:
- Orthodontics
- Dental Implants
- Dental Crowns and Porcelain Veneers
- Tooth Extraction
By adjusting your bite, your dentist could help alleviate pressure on your jaw and help it heal from inflammation.
Botox
Botox treatment, when delivered by a trained and certified dentist, can be a great treatment option for TMJ symptoms. The injections target specific muscles in the jaw and work to help them relax. Treatment with Botox can often help patients find quick relief from jaw pain, tension headaches, and other common TMJ symptoms. However, it’s important to note that results aren’t permanent. Most patients will need to get touch-up treatment about every six months for continued relief.
If you suffer from jaw pain, TMJ treatment options are available. At AH Smiles, we work hard to provide the best treatment needed for each individual bite. Call us today at (847) 230-9703 to schedule a consultation and learn more about TMJ symptoms and treatment. After examining your bite, Dr. Brent Engelberg can help create a treatment plan designed to help improve your jaw health.