TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders are issues connected to your jaw joint. This condition occurs when temporomandibular joints and the chewing muscles do not work together appropriately. If you are facing joint pain or a clicking and popping sound, they can now be quickly assessed and cured than was possible previously. But if not treated on time, the TMJ disorders can lead to more severe conditions. So, early diagnosis and treatment become more significant.

At Red Rock Dental, our dentists understand the importance of jaw joints for oral health. We have the expertise and training to diagnose and treat TMJ-related problems. To make your life more comfortable, we may recommend treatment options like splint therapy (nightguards), injectables, or occlusal adjustments for relieving your TMD. 

Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

• Pain in the ears, face, jaws, or unbearable headaches
• Subtle or clogged hearing
• Clicking sounds when chewing
• Fatigued or stiff facial muscles upon waking up
• Teeth grinding when awake or sleeping
• Chronic headaches 
• Difficulty in opening mouth freely or smoothly
• A feeling of locked jawbone
• Development of incorrect bite
• Discomfort when biting, or painful chewing
• Teeth chipped or worn on edges
• Visible overbite
• Unexplained shifting of teeth, gaps, or crowding 

TMJ Treatments to Relieve Your Pain

Once our dentists confirm your TMJ disorder, we will determine the correct course of treatment. It should be noted that treatment always works best when there is coordination between the patient and the dental provider.

The primary goal is to relieve joint pain and muscle spasm. Generally, this is achieved with pain medicines and muscle relaxants. The pain and swelling can be reduced by injecting steroids directly into the joints. Self-care can be equally effective and include:

• Resting your jaw joint
• Maintaining a distance between teeth when not eating or swallowing 
• Soft diet foods
• Applying ice and heat packs
• Exercising your jaw

Nightguards

Stress management techniques include an oral appliance named a splint or night guard. It must be worn over your upper and lower teeth to help keep a distance between your teeth, thereby relaxing the muscles and decreasing pain. 

The night guards can also be used for other reasons, such as preventing the clenching or grinding of your teeth, easing muscle tension at night, and helping shield the joint and cartilage surfaces. An anterior positioning device moves your jaw to a forward position, aids in disk repositioning, and relieves pressure on parts of your jaw. It may be worn for up to twenty-four hours a day to help heal your jaw. 

If you are interested in learning more about TMJ treatments, visit our office, Red Rock Dental, at 900 S Pavilion Center Dr #140, Las Vegas, NV 89144. You can also reach us at (702) 243-8788.