TMJ Symptoms
- Pain or tenderness in the face, jaw, neck and shoulders
- Pain in or around the ear when jaw movements occur
- Limited ability to open mouth very wide
- Jaws that “lock” in the open or closed position
- Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint
- Swelling on the side of the face
- Teeth that do not align properly
- Frequent tension headaches
What is TMJ?
The TMJ is two small joints that control jaw motion; they are sensitive to a variety of influences. There are a host of factors that can irritate these joints, including grinding your teeth due to stress, trauma, and a misaligned bite. These problems can lead to exposed nerve endings and cause impaired function. The discomfort associated can range from mild to debilitating and can dramatically decrease your quality of life.
TMJ Treatment
We understand that the teeth, jaw muscles, and nerves must work together for whole-mouth harmony. To allow the mouth and jaw muscles to work together we employ modern technology to assess jaw function and determine the source of TMJ-related discomfort. As part of the treatment, your TMJ dentist will use a special machine that allows your muscles to relax and your jaw to position to its most comfortable position. We then use our K-7 computer to record your jaw’s proper alignment and render a 3D image that Dr. Hodges utilizes to create a custom oral appliance that encourages optimal alignment of jaw and teeth to eliminate TMJ pain.
Your individual treatment may vary as each individual has specific conditions that will need to be addressed by a TMJ dentist. Our practice prides itself on providing TMJ relief that can restore optimal bite and neuromuscular function with non-surgical temporomandibular joint therapy.
To learn more about TMJ treatment and to get relief from your TMJ pain, please contact us at (918) 528-3330 to schedule an appointment with our TMJ dentist so that she can go over your individual needs.
