A temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMJ, can limit your ability to speak or chew and can also be very painful. Dr. Peter Kim wants to help you find relief from TMJ. The first step is to locate and evaluate the severity of your problem, and at Sierra Oaks Dental, we use the Doppler method to help our dentist with your TMJ diagnosis in Sacramento, California. This technique uses ultrasound to literally listen to your jaw joints to detect any abnormal sounds associated with the problem. Because we employ the use of acoustics, we can better understand your problem and create a treatment plan in a safe and non-invasive way. If you have been suffering from pain in your jaws and are ready for some relief, call (916) 481-2000 today.
Patient Education | Spear Education
What Is TMJ?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, and it refers to the jaw joint that connects the jaw to the skull. TMJ disorder, often just called TMJ or TMD, refers to a problem with this jaw joint that causes problems when the jaw is in use. This commonly happens when the jaw joint becomes injured, misaligned or stressed. Because people use their jaw joints so frequently throughout the day for speaking and eating, it is very common for patients to experience problems with opening and closing their jaws as they get older. TMJ disorder can result from normal wear and tear from eating and speaking, but it can also be caused by holding tension in the jaw due to stress, teeth grinding and clenching, arthritis in the TMJ, or injury or trauma.
Why Opt for TMJ Treatment?
If you are experiencing discomfort in your jaw, especially when opening or closing it, you may be suffering from TMJ. TMJ treatment can relieve many problems, including:
- Clicking or popping sounds when you open and close your mouth
- Discomfort or inability when you open your mouth wide
- A locked or stuck jaw
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Pain in the neck, shoulders or ears
- Headaches
Benefits of TMJ Treatment
TMJ treatment can help you regain comfortable and full control of your jaw. You can speak and eat without problems again with successful treatment. In addition to relieving discomfort in your jaw, TMJ treatment can relieve tension or tightness in your neck, shoulders and head. It can be especially good for stopping headaches that are caused by tension in the jaw. Our dentist can evaluate your symptoms and find treatments that will best target them.
Process of Receiving TMJ Treatment
The cause and severity of your TMJ disorder will first be determined during your consultation. Treatment may be simple or more complex, including jaw exercises, facial relaxation techniques, lifestyle and diet changes, restorative dental treatment, oral appliances, or jaw surgery. We will work with you closely and help you find relief.
Cost of TMJ Treatment
TMJ treatment is never the same for any patient since each patient’s case of TMJ is so unique. We will determine the cause and extent of your TMJ and personalize a treatment plan for you. The cost will depend on what treatments are needed to relieve your symptoms.
To get relief from your TMJ symptoms, schedule a consultation with our dentist and learn more about TMJ treatment! We look forward to seeing you soon.
