If you experience jaw pain, headaches, or clicking when you chew, you may have TMJ disorder. We offer personalized treatments, including custom night guards and bite adjustments, to relieve discomfort and improve jaw function. The goal of our Grand Rapids TMJ dentist is to reduce pain, prevent further strain, and help you enjoy a more comfortable, stress-free smile.
Learn more about treatment for TMJ dysfunction below.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are essential for everyday movements like chewing, speaking, and yawning. These joints connect your jawbone to your skull and allow for smooth, fluid movement. However, when dysfunction occurs in this area, it can lead to a condition known as TMJ disorder which may result in symptoms such as jaw muscle pain, headaches, earaches, popping sounds in the jaw, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth.
TMJ disorder affects individuals differently. For some, the discomfort is mild and intermittent, while others may experience persistent pain that interferes with daily life. The underlying causes can vary, including jaw misalignment, teeth grinding (bruxism), stress, arthritis, or injury to the jaw.
Crafting a Personalized Treatment Plan
Because it can present in many ways, our dentist takes a personalized approach to TMJ disorder treatment. During your visit, we will conduct a thorough examination to assess your jaw movement, identify signs of inflammation, and determine the severity of your condition.
For mild to moderate cases, conservative treatments are often effective. A night guard can reduce teeth grinding and alleviate strain on the jaw, helping to prevent further discomfort. In addition, our dentist may recommend at-home exercises designed to stretch and strengthen your jaw muscles, improving mobility and reducing tension.
For patients with more severe or persistent TMJ symptoms, we may explore alternative treatments such as medication to reduce inflammation or physical therapy to improve jaw function. Surgical intervention is only considered in extreme cases where non-surgical methods have not provided sufficient relief.
