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TMJ Treatment Arlington Heights, IL

TMJ Treatment An Overview

Dr. Brent Engelberg provides comprehensive dental services in Arlington Heights, including diagnosis and treatment for complex adult dental problems such as temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Commonly called TMJ, a TMD can have a variety of causes, most of which are related to an imbalance in the bite, which puts undue pressure on the jaw joints.

TMJ often results in pain, headaches, and clicking or popping of the jaw point. TMJ can also lead to teeth grinding and/or clenching which can cause damage to the teeth and gums over time. Dr. Brent Engelberg provides TMJ treatment options to patients who suffer from TMJ disorders.

Common Symptoms of TMJ

In almost all cases, a TMJ disorder will cause tooth wear and may contribute to tooth decay and/or (gum) disease. Common TMJ Symptoms include:

  • Teeth grinding or clenching, often characterized by tooth wear
  • Frequent headaches
  • Earaches
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Limited mobility in the jaw
  • Clicking or popping when opening or closing jaw
"Dr. Engelberg rocks! I use to hate the dentist; lots of anxiety and a borderline phobia of getting my mouth looked at every 6 months. But since coming to Dr. Engelberg's office in Arlington Heights, I have had the absolute BEST experience I've ever had with a dentist. The office is very clean, friendly front desk people and staff. Whether or not you just need a place to call home for those every 6-month routine cleanings for you and your family, or you want to do some cosmetic restoration on your smile, there is only one place to call."Timothy M.
"My dentist for 25 to 30 years was Dr. William Uhler. Bill eventually retired and sold his practice to Dr. Engelberg. Initially, I thought, " What the heck am I going to do if I have a tooth ache; if all my crowns, bridges and implants decide to retire with Dr. Uhler"? Well folks, enter Brent A. Engelberg, D.D.S.. My teeth and gums have a new friend, a super-pro who knows exactly what he is doing. His procedural technique is always accompanied by calming explanation. Indeed, this fits with his personality: caring, tolerant, perceptive and really empathetic. DR. Brent's staff, well, their marvelous too! Thank you, Dr. larry j. Powitz"Larry P.
"I have always mistrusted Dentist's in the past from some bad experiences. This office is the best ever. Words cannot describe how good it is. You just have to try it. Dr. Engelberg and staff will never try to "upsell" if you don't need it. I have told my friends to go, and if they aren't satisfied, I would pay for their appointment. That's how confident I am about this practice."Glenn C.
"I have ONLY gone to this dentist my entire life (before Engelberg was Uhler). Dr. Engelberg is a great dentist and even better guy! I will be a patient for life because not only are the dentist great, but my dental hygenist Pam is THE best! See ya in FEB!"Matt G.
"I have been going to Dr. Engelberg since Dr. Uhler retired. I have only had positive experiences with him and have found his work and care to be of highest quality. My questions are always answered and I feel very safe and comfortable during all my visits. I find him to be very up to date with the latest in dentistry and knowledgable regarding new techniques and devices that would help my teeth. He is easy to talk to and I enjoy speaking with him."Roberta Z.
"Everyone is super friendly and the chairs even have massages in them! Truly a one of a kind dentist office, always have a very nice experience."Erica S.
"Dear Brent, As a busy home inspector it is sometimes difficult to find the time to maintain my oral hygiene. The flexible hours and electronic follow-up your office provides makes it much easier for me to schedule and keep appointments without having to worry about losing an inspection. After a recent visit, I received an e-mail notice the other day to complete a survey regarding my experience. Instead of filling out the survey, I thought it would be more beneficial to let you know that my visit on December 11 was quite pleasant. Laura did a great job of making me feel relaxed as she turned on the chair back massager. My blood pressure is usually 150/90 when I walk into your office, this time it was 124/70. She took extra time to update my x-rays and then started to work cleaning my teeth. She kept me advised or her progress, was very gentle and before I knew it, she was finished. She even complimented me on the positive results of my flossing. What a way to start the day. You have a great staff doc and your chairside manner isn’t too shabby either. The professionalism you demonstrate clearly filters down to your staff; it makes it easy for me to send them your way when someone needs your expertise."Thomas M.
"Drs. Engelberg and Mularkey are a fantastic duo. As a fellow dental professional I have the pleasure of working with them and seeing their fine dentistry. I can honestly say that they are of the highest caliber dentists and genuinely care about their patients. You can feel confident in choosing their practice."Emily S.
"I was in for my 6 month cleaning with Laura. I am always appreciative of her professionalism and thoroughness. When I leave, I know that everyone in the office has my best interests in mind. From Dr. Engelberg to the hygienists to the office staff, they all work diligently to make the dental experience an exceptional one. I would not hesitate to recommend this practice."Mark W.
"Dr. E is the absolute best! His professionalism and bedside manner makes me want to come to dentist! I've always been terrified! The entire office is spectacular- clean, comfortable, friendly! His assistants (especially Gosia) are so gentle, kind, funny and do an amazing job.whole family comes here and you should too!"Ellie S.
"The entire team makes going to the dentist as enjoyable as possible. This is by far the best dental practice I have ever been to, and Dr. Engelberg is big reason. He is highly personable, takes time to listen to figure out what the dental problems may be, and recommends the fix that is in the best interest of his patients. Dr. Engelberg is highly regarded in the dental community in the north shore, and receives glowing accolades from any other dental professionals he has needed to refer me to, such as an oral surgeon and endodontist."Sean C.

TMJ Treatment What to Expect

What are the treatment options for TMJ disorders?

Dr. Engelberg will evaluate all aspects of your occlusal system during a thorough dental exam to determine the cause of your bite problem and appropriate treatment. Using BioJVA™ joint analysis technology, Dr. Engelberg can identify an imbalance in the bite and/or stress in the jaw joints, using this information to personalize your treatment and ensure that your results will provide a lasting comfortable smile.

Botox® Therapeutic

Dr. Basko and Dr. Engelberg have received training from the American Academy of Facial Esthetics to help address TMJ pain and symptoms using Botox Therapeutic injections. Botox® is a non-invasive and non-surgical treatment option for TMJ. Botox targets specific muscles to help them relax and reduce jaw pain. This process can also temporarily lower the amount of TMJ related headaches. Results typically last about 6 months. For your convenience, you can receive your Botox touch-ups during your bi-annual dental check-ups.

Mouthguard and Splint Therapy

Dr. Engelberg recommends using a mouthguard or dental splint to alleviate specific symptoms of TMJ disorder for patients with mild to moderate issues. A mouthguard or splint is often the first step, used early in treatment and not needed as a long-term solution. A dental split can be helpful to help identify a comfortable and stable bite position.

Bite Correction Therapy

This process is a series of adjustments made to the teeth which may include:

  • Removing tooth structure
  • Applying dental crowns or porcelain veneers
  • Orthodontic treatment
  • Implant dentistry

Orthodontics

If the teeth are not in proper position, orthodontics may be needed to reposition the teeth, allowing them to fit together harmoniously. Dr. Engelberg is a Chicago Invisalign provider. He may recommend this orthodontic treatment option when appropriate for restoring balance to the bite and supporting long-term dental health.

Restorative Dentistry

In cases where teeth have been significantly worn and damaged restorative dentistry may be needed to bring the teeth back to their proper health and beauty. Dr. Engelberg may use dental crowns, porcelain veneers, or cosmetic tooth bonding to restore your teeth and create proper tooth contact.

TMJ Treatment FAQs

How long does it take for TMJ to go away?

TMJ takes about 3 weeks to begin to go away with treatment. TMJ can be reoccurring, and symptoms can reappear for years. This is dependent on the causation and severity of the case. Stress is known to bring TMJ symptoms and pain back.

Can you pop your TMJ jaw back into place?

Dentists can pop a patients jaw with TMJ back into the place. You should not attempt to do this at home. Dentists do this by putting their thumbs on your furthest lower back teeth and by putting their other fingers around your lower jaw. By pressing on the back teeth, and pushing the patients chin upward, jaw joints move back into their natural place.

How do you relax your jaw with TMJ?

There are some jaw exercises patients can do to relax their jaw with TMJ. Repeatedly open your mouth and closing it in small motions can help warm your jaw up to more motion. Placing your fingers on your bottom teeth and press down until you feel your jaw become tight. Holding this for 30 seconds and then releasing your jaw back to its natural position can help patients relax their jaw with TMJ.