TMJ Therapy

Though usually unaware of it, all people have jaw joints in front of their ears called temporomandibular joints, or TMJ. Triangular in shape, these joints are lined with cartilage and move with a smooth, gliding motion. Temporomandibular joints connect the lower jaw and the temporal bone like a hinge, allowing the mouth to open and close without difficulty.

What is TMJ Disorder?

When patients endure higher levels of anxiety, fatigue, or struggle with an improper bite, they may unconsciously grind or clench their teeth, putting additional stress on temporomandibular joints, and in some cases, nerve endings may also become exposed. The result is a range of symptoms including earaches, headaches, tension in the neck and shoulders, even facial tenderness and pain. This is called TMJ disorder, or TMD.

TMJ Treatment

At Creekside Dental, we can evaluate you for TMJ disorder during a regular dental exam. If Dr. Bass detects problems, he can fit you with a simple, comfortable dental appliance designed to slightly reposition the jaw, allowing the joints to rest and protecting your teeth from further damage. Dr. Bass can also make recommendations for relieving the symptoms of TMJ disorder such as:

• Avoiding gum and hard, chewy foods
• Taking small bites of food and alternating chewing between both sides of the mouth
• Eating nutritious foods to help the jaw joint heal faster
• Maintaining good posture, a straight back, and relaxing the neck
• Massaging the temple and jaw lightly to stimulate circulation and relax the muscles
• Alternating moist heat and cold for 20 minutes to alleviate pain

If you are suffering from the telltale signs of TJM disorder, call our San Luis Obispo dental office and schedule your consultation today. If left untreated, TMJ disorder can worsen, deteriorating the joints and requiring surgery. Dr. Bass can help halt your symptoms and get you on the road to recovery and relief.

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