If you have TMJ disorder, or suffer from chronic teeth grinding, known as bruxism, then you need treatment. Otherwise, in addition to painful symptoms, you risk actual damage to your smile. In today’s blog, your Seattle, WA, dentist talks about how we diagnose and treat concerns like TMD and bruxism with an oral appliance.
TMJ Disorder and Bruxism
TMJ disorder refers to strain on your jaw joints which can impact how you open and close your mouth and lead to a number of uncomfortable symptoms. Teeth grinding, or bruxism, could damage your teeth and prevent you and your significant other from sleeping well. Both could be brought on by factors like missing teeth, malocclusion, injury to the face or jaw, or issues with the growth of your jaw or even the eruption of your teeth. TMJ disorder could also lead to bruxism and vice-versa. When we examine your smile for the tell-tale signs of strain and friction, we will assess the cause and severity to choose the most appropriate treatment option.
Warning Signs to Watch for
You should be aware of any symptoms that arise in your smile that doesn’t pass after a day or two. For example, if you have chronic headaches and migraines, jaw and facial pain, or a popping or clicking sensation in your jaw, let us know. Other symptoms include tooth symmetry and toothaches, changes to the appearance of your teeth, and pain in the neck and shoulders. If one or more of these symptoms sound familiar, then contact our team right away for a diagnosis and to discuss possible treatment options. Care can not only halt discomfort, but prevent damage to your smile too.
Treatment with an Oral Appliance
An oral appliance is a device that fits like a mouthguard and is worn as you sleep. We custom-make it based on detailed digital images we take of your smile, so it fits comfortably and provides treatment with precision. The device repositions the jaw to ease strain and stress, and also places a barrier between the upper and lower teeth to prevent further damage. The appliance will be easy to use, clean, and store too. Our team could also discuss treatments like prosthetic placement, orthodontics, or the use of restorations to improve overall bite balance.
If you have any questions about how we ease teeth grinding and jaw joint strain with an oral appliance, then contact our team today to learn more. We want to help you smile with confidence again!
We’re Ready to Ease Your Jaw Joint Strain
Our team wants to help you avoid the painful symptoms and complications of jaw joint strain. If you would like to learn more about how we treat the stress and strain in your smile, then call Ballard Neighborhood Dentist in Seattle, WA today at (206)789-2555!
