TMJ Treatment Mosman
If you have pain in your jaw accompanied by headaches, other pains, or difficulty opening and closing your mouth, there might be a problem with your jaw joints (TMJ).
Our experienced dentists at Mosman 3D Dental can suggest different treatments for TMJ, depending on what’s causing the problem and how severe your symptoms are. To find out how we can help, call us now (02) 9969 8610 or book an appointment online.
What is TMJ dysfunction?
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the two joints that connect the upper and lower jaws together, usually found just in front of the ears. They act as the ‘hinge’ that allows your jaw to move when opening and closing your mouth, eating and speaking.
TMJ dysfunction (TMJD) happens when the joints are strained by an injury, an uneven bite, or teeth grinding and clenching. It may sometimes be minor and go away on its own, while other cases can be more serious, such as those involving a dislocated jaw disc.
Symptoms of TMJ dysfunction can include:
- Jaw pain, especially when moving your jaw
- Headaches, ear pain, neck pain or back pain
- Clicking or popping sounds from your jaw
- Difficulty opening and closing your mouth, or the jaw locking in place
- Chipped or worn teeth
- Dizziness
What is TMJ treatment?
If our dentists diagnose TMJ dysfunction, we’ll discuss suitable treatment options depending on your individual case.
For minor cases, we may recommend jaw relaxation techniques and advice for avoiding straining your jaw while it heals, such as trying to avoid stress and not opening your mouth too wide.
If the problem is more severe, we can provide an oral advancement splint. This is a device that’s worn over the teeth at night, similar to a mouthguard. It’s designed to hold your jaw in a more comfortable position that relieves strain.
If TMJ pain is caused by an uneven bite, this may be treated by rebuilding teeth with crowns or straightening teeth with braces or aligners.
In the most severe cases, surgery may be needed to repair the jaw joints.
Teeth grinding treatment
Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) is often a factor in TMJ dysfunction. If you grind or clench your teeth out of habit, or unknowingly when you’re asleep, this can put pressure on your teeth and jaws. Over time, this can cause teeth to wear down or break, and can also lead to problems such as TMJD.
Some treatments for bruxism are similar to those for TMJD. Our dentists may suggest trying to avoid stressful situations, rebuilding worn or damaged teeth to balance your bite, or wearing a bite splint at night to prevent your teeth from grinding together.
Book an appointment for TMJ treatment in Mosman today
TMJ dysfunction can be a complex condition that needs an experienced dentist. Book a consultation with our dentists at Mosman 3D Dental so we can examine your jaws and teeth, ask about your symptoms and recommend the best solution to ease your pain. Call us on (02) 9969 8610 or book online.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding with a surgical or invasive procedure, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.