TMJ Treatment in Des Plaines, IL

Do you suffer from jaw pain?  If so, you could be suffering from a TMJ disorder. TMJ disorders include a variety of conditions that affect your facial nerves, jaw muscles, and TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint).

Some symptoms that are associated with TMJ disorder include pain in and around the ear, neck aches, headaches, tenderness in the jaw, jaw pain or soreness, and jaw pain when chewing, biting or yawning. Other side effects of TMJ disorder also include difficulty opening or closing your mouth, a popping noise when opening your mouth, or sensitive teeth when no dental issues can be found.

TMJ disorder is more common in women than it is in men, but it can affect people of all ages and genders. It is almost the most common non-dental cause of chronic facial pain. Arthritis, a misaligned bite, and jaw injury can all lead to TMJ disorder.

Stress contributes to TMJ disorder because of the clenching of the law muscles. Overusing the jaw muscles can also worsen TMJ disorder. For these reasons, one of the primary ways to overcome the discomfort associated with TMJ disorder is to exercise regularly to help exert some of the stress that is built up in your body. This will aid in relaxing your facial muscles.

What TMJ Treatment Options Are Available?

Unfortunately, there is no one treatment for TMJ disorder unless it is caused by a misaligned bite. Your dentist can take X-Rays and casts of your teeth to check the alignment of your bite and see if that is the cause. If it is, your dentist can design a treatment plan to realign your teeth so that they no longer cause discomfort or tension in your jaw.

In doing so, your TMJ pain will go away once your bite has been properly aligned. However, if your TMJ disorder is not caused by a misaligned bite, you’ll have to pursue other treatment options, such as finding ways to relieve your stress or tension. To learn more about TMJ Treatment in Des Plaines today, schedule a consultation with our excellent dentists.