TMJ/TMD Treatment in Fullerton, CA

What is TMJ/TMD treatment?

TMJ and TMD are complex conditions that can be painful and uncomfortable. A TMJ/TMD specialist is trained to provide treatments that can alleviate pain, correct misalignments, and provide other treatments to improve quality of life.

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. This is the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull allowing the jaw to move up and down and from side to side. TMD stands for temporomandibular disorder. This is a general term for any disorder related to the TMJ. 

TMJ disorders are often caused by malocclusion (bad bite). The upper and lower teeth may not fit together properly, which can cause pain and other uncomfortable symptoms. Visit Berbos Dentistry for the best dental services.

Symptoms of TMD

In many cases, symptoms of TMD are not serious or painful. The most common symptoms of TMD include the following:

• Jaw pain
• Teeth that don’t fit together properly
• Difficulty chewing
• Clicking or popping in the jaw
• Facial pain
• Ear pain
• Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks

Causes of TMD

TMJ and TMD are diagnoses given to patients who experience pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and/or the muscles that control jaw movement (TMD). Both of these disorders are caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Clenching and grinding teeth
• Stress
• Arthritis
• Jaw injuries
• Misalignment of the teeth
• Jaw dislocation
• Misalignment of the jaw joint
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Arthritis

Treatment Options for a TMJ Disorder

A TMJ disorder can range from mild to severe. Mild TMJ issues include clicking or popping of the jaw, pain when chewing, stiff jaw muscles, or frequent headaches. Severe TMJ issues include chronic headaches, painful clicking or popping of the jaw, difficulty chewing, and locking of the jaw.

Mild TMJ issues can be treated with self-care including eating soft foods, taking over-the-counter pain medications, and using a warm compress. If these treatment options do not alleviate symptoms, your dentist in Fullerton CA may prescribe an oral appliance. These appliances are worn at night to move the jaw into a more optimal position. This relieves pressure on the TMJ muscles. Additionally, jaw exercises like stretching, chewing, and speaking regularly can help ease discomfort.

How Can I Prevent TMJ Pain?

Preventing TMJ pain requires taking care of your teeth. If you take care of your teeth and gums, you’re less likely to experience pain. Our dentists recommend you follow these tips for preventing TMJ pain.

• Practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice each day and floss once every day.
• Eat a healthy diet. Limit foods high in sugar and avoid eating hard foods.
• Cut back on caffeine. Caffeine can dry out your mouth and can cause you to grind your teeth.

For the best dental care, visit Berbos Dentistry at 1321 N. Harbor Blvd, Suite 306, Fullerton 92835, or call (714) 526-4867.