TMD / TMJ Treatment in Manton, MI

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge that connects the temporal bones of our skull to our jaw. The joint allows us to mow our jaw side to side and up and down, so we can chew, yawn and talk.

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are problems with our jaw and the muscles in our face that control it. Therefore, the term “temporomandibular disorder” (TMD) refers to a number of problems linked to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and nearby muscles. If you have a bad bite or if you grind your teeth, you might want to go see a dentist near you.

What Causes Temporomandibular Disorders?

Dentists and researchers believe that temporomandibular disorders arise from problems with the parts of the temporomandibular joint or with the muscles of the jaw. For instance, injury to the temporomandibular joint, the jaw, or the muscles of our head and neck caused by a heavy blow might lead to TMD.

Other possible causes include:

Clenching your teeth or grinding, puts a lot of pressure on the joint.
Dislocation of the ball and socket of the joint.
Arthritis in the joint.
Stress, especially when stress is causing you to clench your teeth or tighten your facial and jaw muscles.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Temporomandibular Disorders?

Pain or tenderness in the joint area, face, jaw, and in or around the ear when you speak, chew or open your mouth wide.
Pain or trouble when you open your mouth wide.
Jaws could get locked or stuck in the closed or open mouth position.
Popping, clicking, or grating sounds in the jaw joint when you open and close your mouth or when you’re chewing. This does not always cause pain.
A tired feeling in your face.
Problems with chewing or a sudden uncomfortable bite, you might feel as if the lower and upper teeth are not fitting together properly.
Swelling on the side of your face.

You may also have headaches, toothaches, neck aches, upper shoulder pain, earaches, hearing problems, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness, and hearing problems.

Getting the right help at the right time can help you avoid the trouble of undergoing extensive and complicated dental procedures later in time. If you have any or some of these symptoms, you might have to go see a dentist and see if you have to be diagnosed with TMD. If that is the case, you should start to look for TMJ treatment near you.

At Brite White Dental we welcome patients with any such problems. If you need accommodation to receive dental services, call Brite White Dental today and ask for the next available slot with our dentist in Manton, MI.

What Can You Expect During Your appointment?

Brite White Dental is a conveniently located dental practice that offers TMJ treatment in Manton, MI. After a thorough examination and, if required, appropriate x-rays, the dentist or the dental team at Brite White Dental might suggest a plan to treat your TMD. This treatment plan could include medicine for pain, inflammation and/or tense muscles.

Other treatment options might even include relaxation techniques, a referral to a chiropractor, a physiotherapist, or a behavioral therapist to help ease muscle pain. There are also a number of approaches that help improve sleep if you’re having trouble getting a good night’s sleep.

Depending on your unique circumstances, the dental team at Brite White Dental may suggest wearing a nightguard, which should help your jaw joints and muscles to relax.

How to Prepare For Your Appointment?

The dental team at Brite White Dental might have to ask you some questions. We would suggest that you prepare a list that answers the following questions: