If you suffer from frequent jaw pain you may have TMJ. TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorders, are often caused by a jaw injury, inflammation, or overuse. Bruxism, or clenching and grinding your teeth, is a common condition that can occur at any age and is a common symptom of TMJ.
Adults may unconsciously clench or grind their teeth when awake or asleep because they are stressed. Those with an abnormal bite or crooked and missing teeth can be more prone to this condition than others. Dr. Ray Becker and his team of experienced dentists in Columbia, MD treat TMJ and will review your symptoms in order to give you a proper diagnosis and treatment. You can schedule an appointment online or call (410) 415-9013.
TMJ Symptoms
Common symptoms of TMJ to look out for include:
- Headaches
- Tooth Pain
- Grinding Teeth
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Jaw Soreness
- Muscle Soreness
- Lockjaw
- Loose Teeth
- Fractured Teeth
Please contact our office if you notice orofacial pain and we will work with you to find a solution.
Treating Jaw Pain
Muscle relaxation techniques: For patients with mild cases of TMJ, our dental team may work with you to practice muscle relaxation techniques that can reduce tension in the jaw over time.
Mouthguard or splint therapy: A custom mouthguard may be used to reposition the jaw so it can relax in a natural position and the teeth will make proper contact. The mouthguard also protects teeth from further wear and tear
Orthodontics: In cases where malocclusion, or a misaligned bite, is the underlying cause of a bite disorder, we may recommend Invisalign clear aligners, which are often used to straighten teeth, and rebalance the bite.
Restorative dental procedures: If your teeth have been chipped or cracked due to TMJ, we may recommend tooth bonding, dental crowns, or dental veneers to restore and resurface the teeth and allow them to make contact without stress. To learn more about occlusal and TMJ disorders, see TMJ Treatment.