The point of seeking treatment for an oral health concern is often to stop the concern from getting worse. However, many such conditions come with a host of different signs and symptoms, and treating them is also meant to help you find relief from these symptoms as soon as possible. With TMJ disorder, these symptoms can cover a wider range of aches and pains than other concerns. Fortunately, finding relief from them isn’t always complicated, and a custom TMJ appliance may be a highly convenient and effective solution for you, too.

What it means when you have TMJ disorder

When most common oral health conditions develop, like a cavity in your tooth or gingivitis in your gums, the condition may be different for everyone is several respects. However, their development and progression are often similar. For instance, a cavity is the product of decay forming in your tooth structure, which is caused by excessive oral bacteria. When TMJ disorder develops, it can be the result of one or several of many different underlying factors, and the symptoms can vary greatly as a result. A TMJ disorder means that one or both of your temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, have become damaged, misaligned, inflamed, or harmed in a way that makes it difficult and painful to function properly.

Why this leads to so many different symptoms

Your TMJs ae vital parts of your bite’s ability to function properly. Both joints must move at the same time and in the same direction as you open and close your bite in order to maintain your bite’s proper balance. When they’re unable to do so, this can create tension and stress on the joints and the muscles that control their movement, as well as the dominant nerve group that facilitates that movement. This can lead to symptoms that range from discomfort in your jaw when you bite, chew, and speak, such as popping and clicking sensations, to the development of chronic headaches, migraines, ear pain, and more.

How could a TMJ appliance help you?

Treating TMJ disorder requires highly personalized treatment due to the unique nature of its development, its symptoms, and its impact on your oral health. Fortunately, however, many patients who experience TMJ disorder can find lasting relief with the help of a minimally invasive, custom-designed oral appliance. The source of many of TMJ disorder’s discomforts stem from the undue and excessive pressure placed on your jaw’s joints. A TMJ appliance offers support for your lower jaw by holding it in a comfortable, symmetrical position that alleviates pressure on the joints while you sleep. Over time, this can help your jaw heal and alleviate the symptoms associated with the disorder.

Find relief with a custom TMJ appliance

TMJ disorder can be an underlying cause for a variety of symptoms, aches, and pains. With a custom TMJ appliance, we may be able to help you find relief from them all. For more information, schedule a consultation by calling Modern Smile in North Hollywood, CA, today at 818-763-9353. We also proudly serve patients who live in Burbank, Toluca Lake, and all surrounding communities.