While there are many varied and often disruptive symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder, treatment may be as simple as altering your gum-chewing habits or wearing a splint designed by your trusted dental team at Nashua Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry.
Is a TMJ Disorder Suspected?
It is important to turn to our team of exceptional doctors who can diagnose the true nature of your symptoms. If you are living with symptoms that interfere with your quality of life, it’s time for professional intervention. Symptoms include:
- Pain in the shoulders, face, ears, or neck
- Stiffness or locking when opening or closing your mouth
- Popping or clicking with jaw movement
- Ongoing headaches
Habits such as regularly consuming chewy foods or chewing gum may be responsible for irritation. Some patients may experience significant improvement in their symptoms with relaxation techniques to ease tense muscles, the application of either heat or cold, or exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles of the jaw. These lifestyle modifications may be combined with splint therapy.
Splints are dental appliances designed to fit your teeth. They are worn inside your mouth, and are similar to night guards for teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism). In fact, bruxists often suffer from TMJ-related symptoms. Grinding and clenching places stress on the temporomandibular joints. Depending on your situation, splints may be used to reposition the jaw or to minimize the force applied when clenching.
TMJ Disorder Treatment in Nashua doesn’t have to be invasive, nor do you have to rely on medications to relieve your pain. With easy-to-use splint therapy, Nashua Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry’s professionals may be able to eliminate the symptoms. First-time patients, please (855) 363-3793 to schedule a consultation.