Specialized TMJ Treatment in Edina, MN
Effective Solutions for TMJ Disorders
WHAT IS TMJ TREATMENT?
Temporomandibular joint disorder, often referred to as TMJ, refers to various conditions that can affect the joint attaching the jaw to the skull. Located below the ears on either side of the face, the temporomandibular joint is essential for chewing, speaking, and facial expressions, so when it is not functioning correctly, this can take a toll on your way of life.
People who grind their teeth can sometimes develop a serious problem with their jaws. If left untreated, it can negatively affect their teeth, gums, and oral bone structures. Minor cases of TMJ can involve discomfort or pain in the jaw muscles, however, more serious conditions can involve improperly aligned joints or dislocated jaws. The most common symptoms of TMJ can include:
- Jaw pain
- Ear pain, ringing, or stuffiness
- Frequent headaches or neck aches
- Clicking or popping of the jaw when it moves
- Swelling on the side of the face
- Muscle spasms in the jaw area
- A change in the alignment of top and bottom teeth
- Locked jaw or limited opening of the mouth
TMJ symptoms are often exacerbated by stress and are more common in women than men. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to discuss them with our general dentists in Edina, MN. We can discuss various options to help relieve your discomfort.
How to Treat TMJ Pain
There are multiple options to help relieve any pain you may have.
Night Guard Or Splint
These are plastic mouthpieces that fit over your upper and lower teeth making them unable to touch. They can help lessen the effects of teeth clenching and grinding and even correct your bite by putting your teeth in a correct position. If you are fitted for a night guard, you will only be required to wear it at night while you sleep. However, if you are fitted with a split, you will be required to wear it all hours of the day.
Bite Correction
Correcting your bite could involve one or many dental services, depending on your case. It could include:
Reshaping Tooth Surfaces
One way to correct TMJ issues is to reshape the biting surfaces of teeth to better your occlusion. At Mint Dental, we can discuss any dental work needed, which could include:
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is an excellent solution to correct bite and TMJ issues – along with getting a straight smile.We do offer Invisalign or may refer you to an orthodontist, depending on your case.
Maxillofacial (Oral) Surgery
If our dentists recognize your TMJ condition is severe, we will recommend you to a TMJ specialist (ie. oral surgeon) in Edina or Shakopee , MN who will be able to provide the care and solution you need.
At-Home Care
If you wish to help combat the issue at home, you can also take important steps to prevent TMJ from occurring or becoming more severe:
- Relax your face (lips together, teeth apart)
- Avoid grinding your teeth if you can
- Avoid constant gum chewing
When using the phone, do not cradle the phone receiver between your head and shoulder. If possible, try to use a headset or hold the receiver in your hand.
- Chew food evenly on both sides of your mouth
- Do not sit with your chin resting on your hand
Practice good posture. Keep your head up, back straight, and shoulders squared.
If necessary, your dentist can prescribe necessary NSAIDs or muscle relaxers to help with pain, swelling, and muscle relaxing until the problem can be fixed.
