Does A Jaw Ache Mean TMJ Disorder?

cleveland tmj disorder

When you notice aching in your jaw, this could be related to a common disorder known as TMJ disorder, or TMD. Without treatment, this could lead to more severe symptoms and eventually complications like bruxism (chronic teeth grinding). In today’s blog, your Cleveland, TX, dentist will discuss how we treat issues like TMJ disorder.

Jaw Pain and TMD

The temporomandibular joints connect our jaws and skull, and make the movements that allow us to eat and speak possible. When these same joints become stressed and strained, this could lead to TMJ disorder. The strain could make your jaws ache and feel sore. Eventually, the disorder could also cause problems fully opening and closing your mouth. In addition, this could increase the risk of a related disorder known as bruxism, in which we grind and clench our teeth frequently, which risks damaging teeth!

Other Warning Signs

People with TMD could experience popping or crackling in the jaw, as well as headaches, migraines, facial aches, and pain in the neck and shoulders. If you grind your teeth, tooth sensitivity and toothaches could be possible too. Factors behind your TMD could include anything that upsets bite balance and strains the joints, such as injury to the face or jaw, a missing or ill-fitting restoration or prosthetic, tooth loss, anxiety, and dental misalignment. As part of your treatment, we will use digital technology to examine your smile and assess the factors behind your TMJ disorder, so we can recommend the most appropriate treatment option.

Possible Treatment Options

For some, we could use orthodontics, including clear aligners, to correct the position of the teeth and ease strain on the bite. For others, creating and placing a dental crown could help. But in most cases, we will take detailed digital images and measurements to create and custom-fit an oral appliance. The device will look and fit much like a mouthguard, and is worn as you sleep. The appliance repositions the jaw to ease strain on the joints, and places a barrier between the upper and lower sets of teeth to prevent further damage from teeth grinding. The appliance is a convenient, noninvasive solution to TMD and bruxism, helping you enjoy better comfort and a healthier smile.

If you have any questions about treating issues like TMJ disorder, then contact our team today to learn more or schedule a consultation.

Ready to Correct Your TMD?

If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of TMD, then schedule a consultation today by contacting Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, TX, at (281) 592-1234. You can also find our practice at 205 E. Houston St. Cleveland, TX 77327. Our team wants to help bring relief and comfort to your smile again!