TMJ Treatments in Westport, CT
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone to the skull. TMJ disorders often cause discomfort in the cheek, jaw, or ear areas and can affect normal jaw function.
In less severe cases TMJ disorders can be treated with self-managed care (eating soft foods, using ice packs, avoiding extreme jaw movement) or nonsurgical treatments (anti-inflammatory medications, Botox injections, or stabilization splints). In more severe cases, surgical treatments (jaw joint replacements) may be necessary.
TMJ conditions fall into three main categories:
- Myofacial pain – discomfort or pain in the muscles that control jaw function (grinding teeth can result in this type of TMJ disorder)
- Internal derangement of the joint – a possible indicator of a displaced disc, dislocated jaw, or injury to the condyle
- Arthritis – a degenerative inflammatory disorder
Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders are frequently intensified by stress and can include:
- Headaches
- Soreness in the cheek or jaw area
- Pain in or around the ears
- Facial pain
- Tight jaws
- Popping or clicking sounds when opening mouth
- Locking of the jaw
- Difficulty chewing
Occlusal Adjustment Techniques
Occlusal adjustment can be a very effective treatment for TMJ disorders.
Indicators that adjustment may be needed:
- tooth movement
- change in bite
- grinding or clenching teeth
- tightness in the jaw
- headaches near the eye or jaw area
- tooth sensitivity to heat cold or sweets
Occlusal Adjustment Techniques – Diagnosis and Treatment
Even distribution of force during biting is an important aspect of oral health. If there are misalignments of the teeth affecting the bite, loose teeth, tight muscles and headaches, and tooth sensitivity or even teeth chipping can result. The bite can be checked through a number of techniques. One of the most common techniques and tools used for diagnosis is the use of a marking film placed between the teeth while biting and moving the teeth as directed in order to understand how the teeth relate to one another during various common movements. The resulting variations in markings indicate the precise places where the force is too great. Adjustments can be made to the appropriate teeth in the exact location needed. The adjustments are made using a specialized dental instrument and the procedure is usually painless. As the muscles begin to relax, there will be changes to the bite over time. For this reason, a series of appointments are usually needed until the bite gradually adjusts and symptoms lessen or disappear altogether.
Treatments Sometimes Used in Conjunction with an Occlusal Adjustment:
Hawley Bite Plane – This is a custom removable appliance that can be useful to relieve headaches and to reduce movement of teeth that that have become loose as a result of repeated tooth grinding.
Splinting – This is a temporary solution that can help stabilize loosened teeth by securing them to neighboring teeth through the use of a Kevlar material called Ribbond to form a splint.
Medication – Anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxers may provide some relief for tight jaw muscles.