TMJ Therapy for Arlington Sufferers
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the tiny connective tissues that attach the jaw to the skull bone and allow people to comfortably speak, chew, yawn, and conduct other daily activities. When these joints are damaged or strained, the resulting condition is known as TMJ dysfunction (TMD), and TMD makes it difficult or painful for people to complete typical daily activities. Even a smile can be uncomfortable. At the Arlington, TX dental office of James T. Gray, DDS, we offer effective TMD therapies that relieve pain and restore full jaw mobility. Contact us to find out more or schedule an appointment.
Diagnosis & Treatment
To begin treatment, we first need to determine if patients are suffering from TMD. We screen for this disorder as part of six month checkups, but it’s important that patients let us know if they experience any of the warning signs of TMD including grinding or clicking sound when opening and closing the mouth, inability or limited ability to open and close the mouth, severe jaw pain, pain that radiates throughout the neck, back, and head, and chronic headaches. If patients exhibit symptoms, we’ll conduct a thorough visual, tactile, and x-ray examination to give an accurate diagnosis.
Occlusal Splints
One of the simplest and most effective techniques we offer to improve jaw mobility for TMD sufferers is to create a customized occlusal splint that shifts their jaw into the most comfortable resting position. These occlusal splints are worn during sleep when patients are most likely to unintentionally shift or clench their jaw putting undo strain on the TMJ. Additionally, daily wear can realign the resting position of the jaw to this more ideal set decreasing discomfort and strain.