(864) 457-3901
TMJ Treatment – Landrum, SC
Find Relief from Persistent Jaw Pain
Are you often bothered by an ache in your jaw? Is it sometimes difficult for you to chew certain foods? Do you have frequent headaches? It is possible that you are suffering from TMJ disorder, also known as TMD. We invite you to come in for a consultation with our Landrum dental team. Dr. Moneyhun can evaluate the situation and recommend your next steps. Our goal is to help you find relief from persistent jaw pain!
Why Choose Parkside Dental for TMJ Treatment?
- Conservative & Effective Treatment Options
- Gentle & Caring Team
- Relief from Jaw Pain & Headaches
What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder may also be called TMJ dysfunction or TMD. It is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinges in front of your ears that connect your mandible (lower jaw) to the rest of your skull. The TMJ plays an important role in eating, speaking, and other essential oral functions.
When your TMJ becomes stressed, injured, or overworked, it can cause the symptoms that are commonly associated with TMD.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
TMD can cause many different symptoms. Some of the most common include:
- Pain and tenderness in the jaw and surrounding facial muscles
- Headaches
- Migraines
- The sensation of lockjaw
- Popping and clicking in the jaw when opening and closing the mouth
- Earaches
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Pain in the neck and back
- Difficulty and pain while chewing
- Limited range of movement for the mouth
- Changes in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together
Types of TMJ Treatment
During your exam, Dr. Moneyhun will learn about your symptoms and seek to identify the root cause of your problem, which could stem from a range of factors, such as a misaligned bite, stress, or something else. After his evaluation, Dr. Moneyhun will be able to recommend your next steps. He might advise you to use a custom occlusal splint or undergo a procedure known as equilibration.
Occlusal Splint
An occlusal splint resembles a mouthguard. Its job is to prevent grinding and clenching of the teeth and encourage relaxation of the TMJ and surrounding muscles. If you consistently use an occlusal splint each night, you may soon notice a reduction in painful symptoms.
Equilibration/Occlusal Adjustment
Sometimes, the upper and lower teeth do not fit together exactly right. That can place stress on the TMJ. In some cases, this issue can be addressed by making small alterations to a patient’s teeth or restorations. Once the teeth are able to work harmoniously together, it can relieve tension in the facial muscles and jaw joint.
