TMJ Therapy
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, the small hinges that connect the jaw to the temporal bone of the skull, which are located in front of the ears. The joints are part of a complex system of muscles and ligaments. These joints are sensitive to physical, emotional, and psychological stress, and even the smallest change in eating habits or a little added pressure may cause the whole system to malfunction.
TMJ disorders can develop for many reasons, but one of the more common causes is chronic teeth grinding, or bruxism. Bruxism can develop as a result of increased stress, anxiety, an abnormal bite, crooked teeth, or tooth loss. If you have sleep apnea, it can also appear while you sleep. In most cases, bruxism occurs while asleep, which is also why it tends to go undiagnosed for long periods of time.
Symptoms of TMJ disorder include facial, neck, and shoulder pain, earaches, dizziness, teeth sensitivity, jaw clicking or popping, teeth grinding (bruxism), and difficulty opening and closing the mouth. You may also experience tenderness or pain in your jaw or difficulty chewing certain foods. If you have persistent pain or tenderness in your jaw, chronic headaches or migraines, or limitation of movement with your jaw, then it’s time for you to seek medical attention.
Chronic teeth grinding is among the most common risk factors for TMJ disorder, but it is not the only one to keep in mind. TMJ disorders can also develop as a result of a previous jaw injury. Certain conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and connective tissue diseases that can damage the TMJ as well.
Other than reducing the chronic pain associated with TMJ disorder, failing to get treatment can lead to more serious complications later. For example, those who rely on certain medications to manage pain are not effectively treating the source of the issue. This can lead to developing a resistance to that painkiller or even a dependency or addiction to that drug.
Additionally, those with TMJ disorder are more likely to grind and clench their teeth, resulting in worn-down enamel. This can make it more difficult to chew foods and even cause a tooth to crack, resulting in a dental emergency and higher health care costs.
Finally, TMJ disorder can even lead to hearing problems without treatment. As mentioned, earaches are common for those with the condition. But since these joints are located near the ears, it can permanently compromise hearing, allow tinnitus to develop, and even cause balance issues (i.e. vertigo or recurring dizziness.)
If, after a comprehensive examination, Dr. Oyler finds that you are suffering from a TMJ disorder, he will develop a treatment plan to help alleviate stress and reset your jaw to its optimal position. Dr. Oyler will use state-of-the art technology to determine your jaw’s natural, comfortable resting position. He may design a custom mouthguard to realign the jaw joints or restore your teeth to reposition how the jaw sits when closed. TMJ therapy performed by an experienced general dentist in Lawrenceburg such as Dr. Oyler canease the nagging pain that detracts from your quality of life.
Call today to schedule your comprehensive TMJ evaluation. Dr. Oyler's Lawrenceburg dental office welcomes patients from Greendale, Aurora, Bright, and beyond.
Botox® injections are an alternative option for treating TMJ disorders and other associated jaw tension and pain. When Botox® is injected into the associated muscles, it can relieve discomfort, and soreness, in addition to reducing other facial pain from teeth grinding. Botox® injections relax the muscles that lead to TMJ pain quickly and effectively. Many patients experience drastic improvement in their condition within as few as two and up to seven days of their first treatment. Since only the areas of the face and jaw that are injected with Botox® are affected, and you will retain full movement of your facial features. Botox® treatment for TMJ is non-invasive and non-surgical, so you will be able to return to your normal daily activities almost immediately.
We look forward to meeting you. Call (812) 537-4272 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.