TMJ/TMD Treatment in Houston, TX
The goal of TMJ/TMD treatment at our dental practice is to provide symptom relief. Common signs of TMD include pain in the jaw, neck or face, headaches, teeth clenching, and grinding. At The Dentists at 650 Heights, we design individualized treatment plans for patients who suffer from temporomandibular joint disorder in Houston, Texas. We have found the symptoms can be managed for many patients with custom-fitted oral splints and bite guards. When diagnosed and treated, early TMD can generally be reversed. This is ideal for preventing further damage to the teeth and jaw.
What is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge joint responsible for opening and closing the jaw. When the TMJ becomes misaligned or inflamed, it can affect proper mouth function. The first step to controlling symptoms is to meet with TMJ dentist near you for a consultation.
An inflamed jaw joint can cause:
- Chronic headaches
- Clenching and grinding
- The difficulty was opening and closing your mouth.
- Pain & inflammation in the jaw
- Popping or clicking when chewing or biting down
- Swelling, tenderness or facial pain
- Teeth sensitivity or pain
While no one knows for sure what caused TMD, jaw misalignments, injuries, or stress have been linked to the common disorder.
TMJ/TMD Treatment Options Near You
At your consultation, our tmj specialists dentist, will discuss several available treatment solutions. Each option is designed to reverse or ease symptoms. Oral appliance therapy is often prescribed to alleviate pressure and protect teeth from damage. These customized devices are worn overnight. Your personalized plan may also include recommendations for:
Diet Change: You can reduce the amount of pressure you put on your jawbone by eating soft foods. It also helps to avoid chewing on ice, gum, and harder food items.
Physical Therapy: Ease inflammation with strengthening and stretching exercises for the jaw. Also, it can be helpful to alternate using heat and ice.
Medication: If you have no luck with OTC medications, your physician may prescribe muscle relaxers and pain meds.
TMJ Disorder Consultation in Houston
If you are suffering from chronic headaches, jaw pain, or other signs of TMJ disorder, and you happen to live around Greater Heights, Shady Acres, North Heights, or Houston Heights dentistry, contact The Dentists at 650 Heights to get TMJ/TMD treatment near you. Call us to schedule a TMD consultation.