Albertville and Guntersville, AL
What is TMJ Disorder?
Temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMJ Disorder or TMJ, is a condition in which the jaw is improperly aligned, causing undue stress and pain of the jaw, head, neck, or back. For optimal functionality, the jaw joints must be in proper alignment and free of stress or tension.
How an uneven bite can cause you pain
The major nerve that runs through the lower jawbone and into the jaw joints is called the trigeminal nerve. This major nerve connects with many other intricate nerves of the face, head, and neck. If the trigeminal nerve is compromised, even in the slightest, it could begin affecting not only your oral health but also your health in general.
Common symptoms of TMJ Disorder
The effects of TMJ can range from mild to severe, even debilitating for some patients, affecting their appetite, sleep patterns, stress levels, and personal or intimate life.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder may include:
- Tension or soreness in the jaw or face
- Popping or clicking noises when you chew or bite
- Headaches or migraines
- Head, neck, or back pain
- Ringing in ears (tinnitus)
- Difficulty chewing
- Uncomfortable bite
Diagnosing TMJ Disorder
At Wall Street Dentistry, we use state of the art technology to diagnose TMJ and to help determine an effective treatment plan. By using a K7 system, we can record your bite patterns and determine your malocclusion (the severity of your bad bite). The K7 system also collects data from the muscles of your jaw, which aids in determining the optimal positioning for your bite.
Treating TMJ Disorder
Part of TMJ treatment consists of improving blood flow to the jaw joint by using a TENSing unit. This specialized equipment delivers electrical impulses of low-frequency to muscles of the jaw. An increase in blood flow helps remove toxins and relax muscles.
Common treatments for TMJ Disorder include pain medication, orthotic mouthpieces, orthodontics, or mouth restorations. Some patients may need a combination of treatments to relieve their TMJ symptoms. The type of treatment used will vary for each patient.
If you have experienced any symptoms associated with TMJ Disorder, do not live in pain and discomfort any longer. Call Wall Street Dentistry today at (256) 878-0525 for a consultation. We welcome patients from Albertville, Boaz, and Guntersville, Alabama.
