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TMJ Treatment Glyndon, MD

Symptoms such as jaw pain, tension headaches, migraines, joint pain, or ringing in the ear could mean that you have TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorder. Often, patients are unsure if these symptoms qualify as a dental concern. However, these symptoms could be caused by factors such as teeth grinding, clenching your teeth, certain habits, your anatomy, and posture.

As your trusted restorative dentist, Dr. Leah Romay is happy to diagnose and provide TMJ treatment in Glyndon, MD to patients with a TMJ disorder. Together, she will work with you to figure out the underlying cause of your pain and treat it effectively.tmj treatment in glyndon maryland

About TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can be triggered due to a variety of underlying dental concerns. They can manifest with different symptoms, and individuals may experience a combination of signs. Often it occurs in patients who have a history of bruxism. Bruxism is the unconscious grinding or clenching of teeth. It most often occurs during sleep and leads dental and jaw issues.

Additionally, patients who have severely misaligned bite patterns or missing teeth may develop a TMJ disorder. If you suffer from a misaligned bite, or malocclusion, this places uneven pressure on the temporomandibular joints and may contribute to a TMJ disorder. If you have missing teeth, this may also cause a TMJ disorder because it will alter your bite alignment.

There are many other things that can contribute to this condition. Not every trigger is dental related. Other factors include:

  • Stresses from work, family, or school can make the condition worse or even trigger bruxism
  • An injury or trauma to the jaw or face can lead to TMJ problems
  • Inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis
  • Habits like nail-biting, chewing on pens, or biting hard objects can strain the jaw
  • Repetitive and excessive gum chewing can contribute to TMJ issues

TMJ Symptoms

While jaw pain and tension headaches are the most common TMJ symptoms, they are not the only symptoms. There are a lot of additional signs that could point to an issue with your temporomandibular joints.

Dr. Romay screens all of her patients for signs of TMJ disorders during regular dentist appointments. However, it is always a good idea to report any symptoms you may be experiencing during your appointments.

  • Jaw Pain: Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
  • Clicking or Popping Sounds: Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when you move your jaw.
  • Limited Jaw Movement: Pain, discomfort, or trouble when you open or close your mouth.
  • Locking of the Jaw: Momentary “locking” or difficulty moving the jaw.
  • Facial Pain: Pain in the face, ears, or neck.
  • Headaches: Frequent headaches, often resembling tension or migraines.
  • Earaches: Pain or discomfort in or around the ears.
  • Changes in Bite: Changes in the way upper and lower teeth fit together.
  • Tenderness of the Jaw Muscles: Soreness or tightness in the jaw muscles.
  • Difficulty Chewing: Discomfort or pain while chewing, and discomfort in the jaw when waking up.

Symptoms can vary in severity and may be temporary or persistent. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management.

TMJ Treatment in Glyndon, MD

Your TMJ treatment plan will depend on the underlying cause of your disorder. If you have missing or broken teeth that are affecting your jaw alignment, Dr. Romay will recommend restorative dentistry services. We offer many tooth replacement option to restore your smile. The best treatment option for you will depend on how many teeth you are missing and the current state of your oral health. We offer:

If you have a misaligned bite, orthodontics can help correct it and create more favorable biting forces. An orthodontic treatment will align your teeth and jaw. This will reduce the uneven pressure on the temporomandibular joint and alleviate your TMJ disorder symptoms. Dr. Romay offers two orthodontic treatments in Glyndon, MD to help treat TMJ disorder:

For many patients, Dr. Romay will suggest oral appliance therapy. This involves wearing a nightguard, also known as an occlusal guard, to allow the jaw to be in a healthy resting position while you sleep. It cushions the teeth to prevent grinding and clenching. This will also reduce the strain on the jaw muscles and joints and help protect your teeth from damage. Nightguards prove to be very effective for many people.

Dr. Romay can also perform botulinum toxin injections to muscles that are causing pain and headaches, as well as trigger point injections to focus on muscles that are causing referred pain. Ultimately, your treatment will depend on Dr. Romay’s evaluation to determine a personalized treatment plan specifically for your needs.

How Can I Get Relief For TMJ Disorder Right Away?

Practicing mindfulness is a great way to prevent jaw pain from occurring. Leave yourself small reminders around your home to relax your facial muscles and unclench your jaw throughout your day. Practice good posture, particularly when using tech devices or sitting at your desk.

Avoid chewing gum and eating very crunchy or chewy foods, as this will further exacerbate the pain. A cold compress or warm compress, whichever feels better to you, and gentle massage of the sore spots can help reduce your discomfort as well. The best thing to do for your jaw pain is to call and schedule an appointment to be evaluated for a long-term treatment plan.

 

TMJ Disorder and TMJ Treatment FAQs

Do you have additional questions about TMJ disorders or TMJ treatment? Here, we address common questions and provide valuable insights into temporomandibular joint issues. Whether you’re curious about treatment, seeking information on the side effects of this condition, or wondering when to consult Dr. Romay, we are here to guide you. Understanding TMJ disorders is the first step toward managing your oral health.

How long does TMJ treatment take?

The usual length of TMJ treatment for adults ranges from 18 months to three years. Therapies like jaw massages, stretching, and stress-reduction activities can bring about some immediate alleviation, however, it can take weeks or even months to fully begin to experience full time relief.

Can TMJ affect your hearing?

Some people may experience ear pain, tinnitus, and hearing loss as a result of  TMJ issues. Your skull and lower jaw are connected by the temporomandibular joint, which is also close to your ear. Problems with this joint can cause hearing and other issues to occur.

How can I relax my jaw when I sleep?

To relax your jaw, place the tip of your tongue between your teeth. This exercise will relax your jaw muscles . By placing a warm towel in front of your earlobe on your cheek at night, you can also relax your jaw muscles.

Can TMJ affect your digestive system?

TMJ may negatively impact the function of your digestive system. A recent University of Massachusetts study found that TMJ sufferers had almost 100% more digestive issues than people without jaw issues. Chewing is the initial stage of digestion, however TMJ can make it very difficult to properly chew food.


Schedule Your Appointment For TMJ Treatment in Glyndon, MD Today

If you suspect you’re suffering from a TMJ disorder or have been experiencing any TMJ symptoms, please request an appointment with Dr. Leah Romay at your earliest convenience. We want to see you as soon as possible to minimize any discomfort you may be experiencing.