The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is essential to chewing and speaking comfortably. It connects the lower jaw to the skull. When this joint is damaged, a patient may experience various symptoms that can affect their quality of life.
Dr. Gregory Hillyard and Dr. Alexandra Monroe provide TMJ treatment in Media, PA. Our dentists can help you find the right treatment options to eliminate pain and improve symptoms over time. Treating TMJ is part of our restorative dentistry options for new and existing patients.
Signs of a TMJ Disorder
Common symptoms and signs of a temporomandibular joint disorder can include:
- Teeth grinding
- Headaches
- Difficulty chewing or moving the jaw
- Worn or damaged teeth
- Lockjaw
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- Jaw clenching
- Earaches
If you have noticed any of these symptoms, please contact our office at 610.566.0291. Our dentists will help you find a solution that works for your specific needs.
TMJ Treatment in Media, PA
Our treatments for TMJ disorders include:
Botox Injections
Dr. Monroe has studied oral and facial musculature and was trained through the renowned Academy of Facial Aesthetics. She utilizes Botox to not only erase wrinkles but also address TMJ and bruxism. Using botulinum toxin (Botox/Xeomin), she treats the muscles of the jaw to lessen the contraction of these muscles. When the muscle’s strength decreases, it relaxes and eliminates orofacial pain.
Botox works well for wrinkles because it paralyzes these muscles that cause them. If the muscles aren’t frequently contracting, the wrinkles slowly fade. This is what makes it an ideal treatment for TMJ problems as well.
The muscles in the jaw are tense and tight, causing pain and discomfort. They aren’t able to fully relax on their own, especially if you’re grinding your teeth at night or subconsciously. Botox allows these muscles to relax to eliminate that pain.
Custom Mouthguards
For patients who grind their teeth, it is essential to give them an extra layer of protection to stop teeth from grinding and prevent further damage to the teeth. A custom-designed mouthguard or nightguard is the ideal solution to address tooth grinding and teeth clenching.
Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry
Teeth that have sustained damage from teeth grinding benefit from restorative and cosmetic dentistry treatments. These treatments are a good way to restore function, beauty, and health to your smile. We offer a full range of dental implant services for patients who lose teeth as a result of advanced TMJ disorder. Dental crowns, tooth bonding, and composite or porcelain veneers can cover teeth for an aesthetically pleasing smile.
You may only need one of these treatment options or multiple. When you come to our office, we’ll do a thorough exam of your jaw and teeth. We want to discern if there’s damage to your jaw and teeth due to TMJ symptoms. Our office will take your symptoms and budget into account to come up with a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs.
TMJ Treatment FAQs
Learn more about TMJ treatment in Media, PA, with answers to these patient questions:
What is the most effective treatment for TMJ?
The most effective treatment for TMJ disorders varies depending on the severity and underlying cause of the problem. Over-the-counter pain relievers, ice packs, and relaxation techniques can help alleviate symptoms. In many cases, bite guards are highly effective. Bite guards prevent clenching and grinding, which reduces stress on the jaw muscles and TMJ.
A dentist or medical specialist may also recommend physical therapy to improve jaw muscle function or orthodontic treatment to correct bite issues. In rare instances, surgery may be necessary. Consult a dentist or medical doctor to determine the best action for your situation.
What is the first-line treatment for TMJ?
The first-line treatment for TMJ disorders is conservative and non-invasive approaches to manage symptoms and treat discomfort. To reduce inflammation and pain, we may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers. Ice packs or moist heat can also help alleviate discomfort in the affected area.
Relaxation techniques and stress management can help minimize jaw clenching and teeth grinding, which often contribute to TMJ problems. Consult a dentist or medical doctor to determine the most suitable first-line treatment for your specific TMJ issues.
Which dentist is best for TMJ?
When looking for the best dentist to treat TMJ disorders, consult a medical professional with experience in diagnosing and managing these conditions.
Our office uses cutting-edge treatments for patients with TMJ issues. We not only provide custom nightguards, cosmetic care, and restorative treatment. Our office also has Botox providers to reduce facial pain from TMD.
How can I heal my TMJ naturally?
Healing TMJ disorders naturally is possible. However, the severity of your condition will determine how effective healing naturally will be. You can use relaxation techniques like mindfulness meditation and deep breathing exercises. These techniques may help relieve stress and tension that further aggravate the TMJ.
Physical therapy and daily exercises can also help stretch your jaw muscles. These treatments can help reduce the jaw pain associated with TMJ. You should also make some dietary changes. Eating softer foods and avoiding hard foods that require a lot of chewing can help ease your TMJ symptoms.
How can TMJ disorders cause headaches?
TMJ can cause headaches because the joint connects your jaw to your skull, right near your ears and temples. When the TMJ isn’t working properly, it can create tension and pain in the muscles around your jaw, face, and head. This tension can lead to headaches and pain around the temples and the back of the head. Grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw can also add to this pain.
Can massaging treat or cure TMJ disorders?
Massaging the muscles around the jaw can relieve some patients who feel TMJ discomfort. You can help relax the muscles, reduce tension, and alleviate pain. While massage cannot cure TMJ, it can be a helpful part of an overall treatment plan. That treatment may include lifestyle changes like avoiding hard or chewy foods.
Can TMJ disorders cause ear problems?
Yes. The TMJ is located close to your ears. When there’s a problem with this joint, it can affect your ears in several ways. First, TMJ disorders can cause pain that feels like it’s coming from your ear, even though the issue is in the jaw joint.
Some people with TMJ disorders can also have tinnitus. Patients can hear ringing, buzzing, or other noises in their ears. You also might feel like your ears are clogged or under pressure, similar to the feeling you get during a flight.
How long does TMJ take to heal?
The healing time for TMJ disorders can vary based on the underlying cause, the severity of the condition, and the treatment. For patients with mild TMJ issues, symptoms may resolve within a few weeks with over-the-counter pain relievers, jaw exercises, and lifestyle changes.
The healing process may take several months or even longer in more severe cases or when treatment involves dental appliances, physical therapy, or orthodontics. Remember that every patient is different. We can estimate your recovery time before treatment.
Contact Our Media, PA Dental Office
If you are experiencing TMJ disorder symptoms, call 610.566.0291. You can also request an appointment with Dr. Hillyard or Dr. Monroe. We will meet with you to evaluate your needs and recommend appropriate dental care.