Have you ever noticed a popping or crackling sensation in your jaw? If so, this could me more than a minor irritation. In fact, this could point to the presence of TMJ disorder, also known as TMD. In today’s blog, your Omaha, NE, dentist will explain how to identify and treat TMJ disorder, and why you shouldn’t ignore headaches or jaw pain!
TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder impacts millions of people in the United States. The disorder occurs when your temporomandibular joints, which connect the face and jaw, undergo excessive strain as a result of misalignment, tooth loss, bite imbalance, stress, or teeth grinding. Over time, the disorder is linked to difficulties opening and closing the mouth completely. Treatment helps prevent serious complications and restores function and comfort to your smile.
Warning Signs and Dangers
People with the disorder often encounter popping or crackling in the jaw joints, as well as facial and jaw pain. Headaches and migraines also occur, and also aches in the neck and shoulders. If you grind your teeth, the pressure placed on them could cause tooth sensitivity and toothaches to occur, as damage and worn enamel exposes sensitive inner structure to bacteria. If you experience these warning signs, please let us know. Without treatment, your smile could be more likely to sustain damage and suffer from decay, infections, or worsening symptoms.
A Custom Solution
Treatment options will depend on the cause and severity of your TMD. For some, treatment includes the use of clear aligners to correct misalignment, while others need their bite balanced with the placement of custom-made dental restorations, such as dental crowns. However, the most common solution is an oral appliance. We will take detailed impressions and measurements of your smile and use this information to design a mouthguard that is worn at night. The appliance fits comfortably, and helps reposition the jaw to ease pressure. If you grind your teeth, the device also places a barrier between your sets of teeth, preventing further damage from grinding episodes. The device will be worn at night and can help offer relief. If you have any questions or concerns about treating TMJ disorder, or if you think you need to have a diagnosis, then please contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About TMD?
We would love to help correct the strain on your jaw joints and improve overall oral health. With our preventive approach to dental care, we have oral appliances and other unique and custom solutions. To learn more about preventive dentistry, schedule a consultation by calling Pacific Hills Dental in Omaha, NE, today at (402) 330-2243. We also serve the residents of Papillion, Elkhorn, La Vista, Millard, and all surrounding communities.
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