TMJ Disorder Treatment
Worried you may have a TMJ disorder? Fairfax Family Dental Care can help relieve jaw pain and dysfunction of the jaw joint.
Using state-of-the-art technology to diagnose the cause of TMD at our Fairfax, VA office, our dentists can develop a treatment plan just for you.
What Is a TMJ Disorder (TMD)?
Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are located just in front of each ear. These complicated joints are responsible for many jaw movements, allowing you to talk, chew, yawn, and so forth. A TMJ disorder (TMD) refers to improper function of the jaw joint.
TMJ disorders can affect the soft cartilage disc of your TMJ, the bones of the joint itself, the muscles that surround the jaw, or the nerves near the jaw and ear.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
- Jaw pain
- Popping or clicking of the jaw joint
- Limited jaw movement
- Lockjaw
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Jaw clenching
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Migraines
- Chronic face and neck pain
How Teeth Grinding Is Linked to TMJ Disorders
Teeth grinding is thought to be a leading cause of TMJ disorders. Individuals with bruxism regularly clench their jaw and grind their teeth. This action puts severe pressure on the muscles in the face and jaw.
However, bruxism can also be caused by TMJ disorders. When the jaws are misaligned, this can place significant strain on the joints and muscles, leading to fatigue, inflammation, and irritation. Consistent pain often causes many patients to clench their jaw and grind their teeth in discomfort, whether they are aware of it or not.
Clenching and grinding your teeth can lead to lasting oral health concerns. Teeth can become worn, which can lead to changes in your appearance and further shifts in your bite that can aggravate TMD. Bruxism can also cause or contribute to dental abfraction (notches in a tooth along the gumline), gum recession, and migraine headaches.
Diagnosing the Cause of Your TMJ Disorder How Our Fairfax Dentists Identify the Root of Your Jaw Problem
Dr. Charles D. Kirksey, Dr. Milan Simanek, and Dr. Touraj Kamali take a holistic approach to diagnosing dental health issues like TMD.
Our Fairfax dental office will use the latest X-ray and 3D scanning technology to identify the various structural issues that could contribute to poor bite alignment, teeth grinding, or suboptimal jaw function.
In addition to scans, our dentists will take time to listen to your concerns and the symptoms you've experienced. By combining advanced technology and the old-fashioned art of listening, we can figure out the best way to treat your TMJ problems.
Our dentists use state-of-the-art technology and a careful review of your symptoms to determine the root cause or causes of your TMJ issues.
Treatments for TMJ Disorders Custom Care to Manage TMD Symptoms
Treating a TMJ disorder often requires a combination of approaches. We can discuss the right procedures for you when you come to our office in Fairfax, VA, for a TMD evaluation.
If your TMD is caused by teeth grinding, we can create a custom mouthguard to wear at night. This prevents direct contact between your top and bottom teeth while also reducing the stress on the jaw joint while you sleep.
Crooked teeth are a contributing factor to both TMD and teeth grinding. Undergoing orthodontic care may be part of your TMJ treatment, which can improve bite alignment as well as the aesthetics of your smile.
Stress, anxiety, poor posture, and a bad diet can all contribute to TMJ disorders or worsening of current symptoms. Our dentists can discuss helpful changes to your habits that can reduce the severity of your TMD.
When less invasive treatments are ineffective, we may recommend more advanced procedures. This may include corticosteroid injections to soothe the joint, BOTOX injections to relax the jaw muscles, or jaw surgery.
Treating Everything from Cavities to TMJ Disorders Fairfax County Can Count on Our Dentists for Expert Care
Denise
Fairfax, VA
2024
Dr Kamali was so kind to me and explained everything that was going to happen to put my mind at ease. His assistant is such a caring person. The front desk assistants were so very patient and understanding. I love how modern and clean everything is.
View on GoogleRik Ebbesen
Fairfax, VA
2024
We have been going to Fairfax Family Dental Care for many years. I left at one point for no good reason and came back. Love the atmosphere, the friendly conversations and the personal touch. There’s a reason why much of their staff have worked there for so long! Highly recommend this establishment and giving your family the service they deserve!!
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