Headaches, jaw pain, and worn teeth are all common signs of TMJ disorder. The exact cause of TMJ disorder is often difficult to diagnose because it is often the result of multiple factors, such as genetics, dental trauma, and arthritis.
In many cases, the symptoms of TMJ disorder can be relieved through exceptional patient care, early diagnosis, and detailed treatment planning.
Dr. S. Jeremy Tu is an experienced restorative dentist who can assist you with your TMJ symptoms.
As a Dawson-trained dentist, Dr. Tu has a profound understanding of the way the bite functions. For patients who notice a change in their dental health, Dr. Tu can diagnose and treat TMJ disorder in our North Liberty, IA dentist’s office. If you are experiencing any symptoms of TMJ disorder, visit Design Dental. We also provide restorative dental treatments to new and existing patients in IA.
Common Signs of TMJ Disorder
Patients who grind their teeth may be exhibiting a sign of TMJ disorder. In some patients, teeth grinding may even reduce their risk of developing TMJ disorder. Constant stress to the teeth and bite can exacerbate the jaw joints, which can lead to feelings of pain or discomfort.
Dr. Tu will evaluate the fit, function, and appearance of your bite to identify signs of TMJ disorder. The key to improving your dental health and restoring balance to your smile is accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment planning.
At Design Dental, we work with you to improve the health and function of your smile. If you notice one or more of the following symptoms, you may want to consider visiting our dental office for a consultation.
Signs of TMJ:
- Facial pain
- Tenderness or pain in the jaw
- Neck pain
- Worn or flat teeth
- Cracked teeth
- Headaches, especially in the morning
Treating TMJ Disorders in North Liberty, IA
The effects of TMJ disorder can be relieved through a range of different avenues. The type of treatment a patient receives will depend on the underlying cause of their symptoms. Coupled with restorative dental procedures, we can have your jaw functioning normally in no time.
- Custom sleep guards: Sleep guards are similar to mouthguards in the sense that they prevent the biting surfaces of the teeth from coming together.
- Orthodontics: For crooked or misaligned teeth, orthodontics can help straighten the smile and reduce the risk of TMJ disorder. Orthodontics can gently reposition the teeth and allow the biting surfaces of the teeth to make proper contact.
- Dental Crowns: Crowns can repair damaged teeth and restore a balanced bite.
- Reshaping the Teeth: Reshaping the teeth can help achieve a more balanced bit and relieve TMJ pain.
- Oral Surgery: In advanced cases, oral surgery is needed to repair damaged jaw joints.
Dr. Tu also offers treatment for TMJ muscle pain and tension using Botox injections. Strategically placed, Botox injections will effectively relax the muscles and relieve tension so that you can move the jaw more freely and it can rest in a more natural position. Dr. Tu will discuss your symptoms and evaluate your jaw function before recommending Botox. Injections may be placed around the face and in the jaw area, treating muscles that are tense and contributing to your TMJ disorder.
Botox treatment for TMJ will include an initial visit for the first round of injections. Follow-up treatment may be needed after several months, depending on your symptoms and other treatments used to address underlying bite problems.
TMJ Disorder & Treatment: Frequently Asked Questions
TMJ can be detrimental without treatment. The answers to these questions can help you learn more.
Can TMJ disorder go away on its own?
In mild cases, self-care may improve TMJ symptoms, such as stress reduction, jaw exercises, and avoiding hard foods. However, chronic or severe cases often require professional intervention. Without treatment, TMJ disorder can worsen, leading to long-term pain, joint damage, and difficulty eating or speaking. It’s best to seek treatment early to prevent complications.
What foods should I avoid if I have TMJ disorder?
Hard, crunchy, and chewy foods can strain the jaw and worsen TMJ symptoms. To reduce jaw stress, avoid tough meats, gum, raw vegetables, and hard candies. Opt for soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, and smoothies. Eating smaller bites and chewing with both sides of the mouth can also help minimize discomfort.
Can bad posture contribute to TMJ pain?
Yes, poor posture—especially forward head posture—can strain the jaw and contribute to TMJ pain. Sitting with the head tilted forward or slouching can misalign the jaw and increase muscle tension. Improving posture through ergonomic adjustments and physical therapy can help relieve TMJ symptoms. Being mindful of posture while working, using screens, and sleeping can make a significant difference.
Does chewing gum make TMJ disorder worse?
Excessive chewing—especially gum—can strain the jaw muscles and worsen TMJ symptoms. Reducing gum chewing can help minimize jaw fatigue and allow the joint to heal. If you need to chew, opt for soft foods and avoid overworking the jaw. Practicing jaw relaxation techniques can also help relieve tension.
How long does it take to see improvement with TMJ treatment?
The timeline for improvement varies depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment used. Some patients experience relief within a few weeks with conservative treatments like night guards and physical therapy. Others may require several months of treatment, especially if orthodontic or surgical interventions are needed. Consistency in following the treatment plan is key to achieving the best results.
When is surgery necessary for TMJ disorder?
Surgery is typically a last resort for severe TMJ cases that do not respond to conservative treatments. Procedures may include arthrocentesis (flushing the joint), arthroscopy (minimally invasive joint surgery), or open-joint surgery to repair or replace the joint. Surgery carries risks and requires careful evaluation by a specialist. Most patients can manage TMJ disorder with non-surgical treatments.
Relieve Pain and Protect Your Dental Health
When left untreated, TMJ disorder can affect your quality of life. It can lead to painful and uncomfortable symptoms that may begin to take a toll on your overall well-being.
If you are a patient dealing with symptoms of TMJ disorder, our team at Design Dental can provide personalized care to help you find relief. The goal of treatment is to relieve your symptoms, address damage, and provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to care for your smile.
If you are experiencing headaches, facial pain, and jaw discomfort, contact us today. To schedule an appointment, call (319) 284-4361 or request an appointment online anytime.