Nightguards and TMJ Therapy

Understanding TMJ

Do you experience ringing in the ears, headaches, neck and jaw pain, or clicking and popping in your jaw? If so, you may have TMJ dysfunction. The temporomandibular (TMJ) joints are the small, triangular joints that give your jaw full range of motion. When these joints don’t work properly, the muscles and nerves that help control jaw movements become overstimulated trying to compensate, and this leads to the painful symptoms of TMJ dysfunction.

Clenching & Grinding Teeth

Many people who have TMJ dysfunction also have bruxism, the condition of clenching and grinding teeth. Bruxism may occur during the day, but most often it happens at night, during sleep. Over time, clenching and grinding will wear down back teeth, altering proper bite or occlusion, and this only creates more trouble for the temporomandibular joints.

TMJ Treatment Options

If you suspect that you suffer from TMJ dysfunction, Dr. Greenfield can perform a complete evaluation. Non-surgical, non-invasive oral splint therapy often relieves discomfort by re-establishing proper jaw joint position. Restoring the proper bite by placing crowns on worn-down back teeth may be the best treatment option. Depending on your case, Dr. Greenfield may recommend strengthening exercises, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, habit changes (no gum chewing, for instance) and/or a bite guard.

Schedule a Visit Today

To reserve a personal consultation, checkup appointment, or cleaning with Dr. Greenfield, call Lake Orion Family Dentistry at 248-693-6213. It’s time you experienced dental care close to home, but far from ordinary!