What It Takes to Treat TMJ Disorder

Treating most common dental health concerns is a personal process in that the treatment itself must be tailored to every patient’s specific needs. For example, tooth decay treatment can vary depending on the size of the cavity and severity of the tooth decay. Yet, the problem is the same, and the process for addressing is similar – to remove the decay and restore your healthy tooth structure. However, treating TMJ disorder is rarely the same process for each patient. Unlike more common conditions, the bite dysfunction can result from numerous different factors, and impact your jaw joints in highly varying ways.

Why TMJ treatment isn’t always the same treatment

The first step to treating any TMJ disorder is to determine precisely what causes your temporomandibular joints to hurt and/or malfunction in the first place. Because this can vary, treatment will have to be designed to restore one or both joints’ functionality through customized treatment. The process may include alleviating pressure on your TMJs with a comfortable, custom-designed TMJ appliance, which you can wear comfortably at night. In severe cases, additional treatment may be necessary to address a more significant concern with your bite’s balance, such as a misalignment in your teeth and/or jawbone.

How to determine the nature of your TMJ disorder

Detecting TMJ disorder can sometimes be challenging on your own. The unique nature of the condition means that some symptoms may vary, and certain aches and pains may not seem related to your oral health at all. For instance, symptoms like chronic headaches and migraines, ear pain, jaw pain, sore facial muscles, and might indicate the presence of TMJ disorder. However, it can be impossible to truly know if you have TMJ disorder or what the specific concern is without a professional, comprehensive examination from your dentist.

Designing the right treatment for your condition

The good news is that finding relief from TMJ disorder can often be simple once you’ve diagnosed it, especially if you address the condition early. For example, in many cases, mild or moderate TMJ disorder and pain may be alleviated by wearing a custom appliance every night to support and position your jaw more comfortably. If your treatment requires more direct intervention, your dentist will work with you to determine the most beneficial course of treatment.

Learn how to treat your TMJ disorder

Treating TMJ disorder can involve one or more treatments that are designed specifically to address your unique TMJ problem. To learn more, 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.