TMJ/TMD Treatment in Knoxville, TN
Although it’s common for athletes to protect their smiles with sports guards during physical activity, did you know that you could permanently damage your teeth while you sleep? Reportedly, between 5 and 12% of patients suffer from a condition known as TMD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction), an umbrella term for abnormalities in the hinge-like joint that connects the upper and lower jaw. At Pristine Smiles, Knoxville family dentist Dr. Z offers jaw-dropping solutions to protect against the devastating side effects of TMJ disorder and teeth grinding.
Symptoms of TMJ
Since TMD can disguise itself as other conditions and causes irreversible destruction, it’s important to be alert to the TMJ symptoms that imply that you are teeth grinding:
- Â Â Â Â Waking up with recurring headaches
- Â Â Â Â Facial pain or stiffness
- Â Â Â Â Ear ringing or discomfort
- Â Â Â Â Irregular sleeping patterns
- Â Â Â Â Worn down, sensitive, and exposed enamel
- Â Â Â Â Broken dental fillings, teeth, and restorations
Is TMJ/TMD treatment right for me?
TMJ often is a condition that causes clenching teeth and jaws, and if you’ve been having this issue for a few years, our family dentist can easily spot signs of this potentially dangerous condition. So, it’s wise to schedule an appointment and talk with Dr. Z about your needs if you believe you could suffer from bruxism. Even though you might not be aware when it happens, early intervention can prevent serious, irreversible complications.
Treatment
If you suffer from any of the signs of TMJ, then TMJ treatment can help alleviate TMJ pain, enamel destruction, and other consequence of the disorder. At Pristine Smiles, our team is eager to help our patients meet their dental needs, and we offer minimally invasive, well-tolerated TMJ treatments to help patients feel relief:
-     Dental Night Guard: A mouth guard for grinding teeth serves as a significant step in helping patients manage bruxism. When worn consistently and adequately, a sleep mouth guard can protect your jaws from soreness and overuse, as well as teeth from wear, fractures, chips, and sensitivity. Ideally, teeth-grinding guards are worn at night because that’s when bruxism usually occurs (when sufferers aren’t aware that they are doing it).
-     Orthodontics: Occasionally, TMJ disorder is caused by jaw misalignment. Many patients find long-term relief by straightening their smile with orthodontic treatment, such as Invisalign® clear aligners.
Finally, Get TMJ Comfort!
Oral health needs are often overlooked, but Dr. Z and her Pristine Smiles team can treat TMJ discomfort based on your needs. Take your first step to a better smile and schedule a Knoxville, TN, TMJ/TMD treatment consultation. Call (865) 693-9474 or message us online.
Frequently Asked Questions
TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, refers to a condition affecting the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. This joint, located on either side of your head in front of your ears, is crucial for various functions such as chewing, speaking, and even yawning.
When this joint becomes misaligned or stressed, it can lead to TMJ disorder, which manifests as pain in the jaw, face, or neck, difficulty in moving the jaw, and sometimes a clicking or popping sound when opening or closing the mouth.
The causes of TMJ disorder are varied, making it a somewhat complex condition to diagnose and treat. Common causes include physical injury to the jaw, arthritis, or grinding of the teeth, also known as bruxism. Stress, which can lead to tension in the jaw muscles, is another significant factor.
In some cases, TMJ can also be linked to genetic factors or certain connective tissue diseases. Identifying the root cause is essential for effective treatment, which is why consulting a specialist like Dr. Nickita Zaveri at Pristine Smiles in Knoxville, TN, can be beneficial.
If you suspect you have TMJ disorder, it is important to be aware of the various symptoms that can accompany this condition. While jaw pain is the most common symptom, it is by no means the only one. Other signs include headaches, earaches, and a feeling of fullness in the ears, which can sometimes be mistaken for ear infections. You might also experience difficulty or discomfort while chewing, a limited range of motion in your jaw, or your jaw may lock in an open or closed position.
Another symptom to watch for is a clicking or popping sound when you move your jaw. While this can be harmless in some cases, if it is accompanied by pain, it should not be ignored. Additionally, some people with TMJ disorder report experiencing dizziness, neck pain, and even shoulder pain. If you notice any combination of these symptoms, it is advisable to seek an evaluation from a healthcare professional experienced in TMJ disorders.
Diagnosing TMJ disorder typically involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. At Pristine Smiles, Dr. Nickita Zaveri will perform a physical examination of your jaw, checking for pain, tenderness, and range of motion. She may also listen for any sounds during jaw movement and assess your dental and medical history for underlying factors that could contribute to TMJ disorder.
Treatment for TMJ disorder can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Non-surgical treatments are often the first line of defense and can include lifestyle changes such as stress management techniques, dietary adjustments to avoid hard or chewy foods, and exercises to strengthen jaw muscles. Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications may also be recommended to alleviate pain and swelling.
In some cases, a custom-fitted dental appliance or splint may be used to reduce teeth grinding and clenching, which can exacerbate TMJ symptoms. If these conservative treatments are not effective, more advanced options such as physical therapy, injections, or even surgery might be considered. Dr. Zaveri is committed to working with patients to find the most effective treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.
Yes, lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing TMJ disorder. One of the most impactful changes is reducing stress, which is a common trigger for jaw tension and teeth grinding. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can be beneficial in managing stress levels. Additionally, being mindful of your posture, especially if you spend long hours at a desk, can help reduce strain on your neck and jaw.
Dietary changes can also make a difference. Opt for softer foods that require less chewing, and avoid chewing gum or eating hard candies. It’s also important to be conscious of your jaw movements and try to avoid habits like biting your nails or clenching your jaw, especially during stressful situations.
Incorporating regular exercise into your routine can improve overall health and reduce stress, indirectly benefiting TMJ symptoms. Jaw exercises specifically designed to strengthen and relax the jaw muscles can also be helpful. Dr. Zaveri can provide guidance on exercises that may be beneficial for you. By making these adjustments, many individuals find significant relief from TMJ symptoms, improving their quality of life.