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jaw pain relief

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction CARE in Levelland

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ) is a common condition that causes jaw pain, headaches, teeth grinding, and even ringing in the ears. Many sufferers don’t realize a dentist can effectively treat the root cause. TMJ symptoms can be disruptive, but a dentist can diagnose the issue and create a personalized treatment plan to relieve pain and restore comfort.

Reason for Treating TMJ

TMJ symptoms often worsen with stress, sometimes causing neck pain and dizziness. A common cause is misaligned teeth, or a “bad bite,” which a dentist can correct without surgery to relieve headaches, jaw pain, and dizziness. Teeth grinding, especially at night, can erode teeth and lead to serious dental issues. Left untreated, TMJ may contribute to jawbone erosion and loose teeth. If you’re experiencing symptoms, a dental evaluation is essential.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of TMJ, we encourage you to contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

What Does Treating TMJ Involve?

TMJ can be caused by various issues, with the most common being a bad bite, though injury to the meniscus cartilage is also possible. To diagnose the condition, the dentist will examine the jaw, assess the bite, take X-rays, and review the patient's medical history.

Once diagnosed, treatment options include custom bite guards to prevent teeth grinding at night, bite analysis, stress-relief techniques, and muscle relaxants. A more effective solution is bite realignment, which can address the bad bite and alleviate TMJ symptoms while improving the appearance of the teeth. This procedure may involve adjusting or restoring teeth and is typically painless. Your dentist will guide you through the process and answer any questions you have about treatment options.