TMJ Treatment

If you are experiencing pain from a Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), TMJ treatment from Authentic Smiles may be able to help.
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What is the Temporomandibular Joint?

The temporomandibular joint, better known as the TMJ, connects the jawbone to the skull. It works like a sliding hinge to allow full movement when speaking, eating, or yawning. TMJ disorders are often temporary, although the cause is often difficult to determine. Genetics, arthritis, jaw injury, bruxism (teeth grinding), or issues with the teeth can cause TMJ disorders. For example, overcrowding or severely crooked teeth can disrupt your bite, which can cause the jaw to slide out of its normal position over time. Thankfully, TMJ treatment in Austin is available to manage or cure these disorders.

TMJ Symptoms

Symptoms of TMJ disorders can include pain, tenderness, or an ache in the jaw, face, ears, or temporomandibular joint. In addition, you may experience pain or difficulty when chewing. In more severe cases, TMJ disorders can cause lockjaw. This is when the jaw locks, making it difficult to open or close the mouth. In most cases, lockjaw associated with TMJ disorders is temporary and will not affect breathing or swallowing.

Mouth Guards

Mouthguards are a device that can be inserted over your teeth. These are sometimes called night guards because they’re meant to be worn primarily while you sleep. Mouthguards can be especially helpful for people who grind their teeth while sleeping.

Alternative TMJ Treatments

Alternative treatments include non-surgical options and home treatments that work best when paired with either a mouth guard or an oral splint. For example, over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories can help manage pain related to the TMJ. However, if the pain is unbearable or over-the-counter medications aren’t working, we may prescribe something more potent like prescription-strength ibuprofen. Another prescription option is a muscle reliever or relaxer. Our dentist may prescribe a muscle reliever if they believe muscle spasms are causing or exacerbating your TMJ pain. Some people find physical therapy works well for their TMJ disorders. Physical therapy will focus on stretching and strengthening the jaw using targeted exercises. Ultrasound, heat, and ice may be used alongside the exercises.

Surgical Options

There are various surgical options available at Authentic Smiles for severe TMJ disorders or those where alternatives have proved unsuccessful. Surgical options are a last resort. Injections and minimally-invasive options are available before more invasive options. You should discuss these TMJ treatment options with our dental professionals at Authentic Smiles.

There are Treatment Options Available for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

TMJ disorders can cause pain and achiness and disrupt your quality of life. These disorders can also make chewing or talking difficult. Thankfully, Authentic Smiles provides TMJ treatments to manage or fix these disorders. Contact our office today to set up a consultation appointment with our dental team.

Address:

1717 W. 6th Street, Suite 365
Austin, TX 78703

Phone:

(512) 330-9403

Fax:

(512) 373-3408

Hours

Monday: 9:00 am - 5:00pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am - 5:00pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am - 5:00pm
Thursday: 9:00 am - 5:00pm
Friday: By Appointment Only
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

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