The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) helps you chew, speak, and yawn. Unfortunately, a disorder that affects it can lead to chronic pain in the jaw, head, and neck. TMJ pain can impact your sleep and overall quality of life.

Symptoms often worsen at night, causing you to clench, grind, or have trouble sleeping comfortably. It is a vicious cycle of pain and poor sleep that can leave you tired and frustrated.

Fortunately, your dentist may be able to help. They can address the root cause of TMJ pain through personalized care and help you get a restful sleep that improves your overall well-being.

Understanding TMJ Pain

A temporomandibular joint disorder causes jaw pain in and around the muscles that control jaw movement. This discomfort is usually not temporary, with symptoms persisting over long periods.

Common symptoms of TMJ disorders include:

• Jaw pain
• Headaches
• Tooth pain
• Clicking sounds with jaw movement
• Muscle stiffness
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Pain around or in either ear
• Trouble opening or closing your mouth

It can be hard to tell if you have a TMJ disorder because many of these are symptoms of other problems. Scheduling an appointment with your dentist will help you get the correct diagnosis.

What causes TMJ disorders?

There is no single cause of TMJ problems. Several factors can contribute to your discomfort. Sometimes, these disorders are genetic, but other times, they are related to injuries or teeth clenching and grinding. Other conditions that can lead to TMJ pain are:

• Chewing too much gum
• Arthritic damage to the joint’s cartilage
• Gradual erosion of the discs in your jaw
• A blow to the face or whiplash
• Orthodontic braces
• Prolonged poor posture

Stress-related habits can also trigger TMJ disorders. Biting your nails and lips or frequently chewing on candy or straws can lead to TMJ pain.

Dental Solutions for TMJ Pain

Oral orthotics are dental appliances designed to alleviate TMJ pain. These removable acrylic devices fit over the biting surfaces of the upper or lower teeth. They ease pressure on the TMJ and surrounding muscles, helping reduce discomfort and enhance jaw function.

These appliances work by repositioning the lower jaw slightly as you sleep. It creates a more comfortable and stable bite position, distributing the force of your bite across a larger area. Spreading out the force reduces the strain on the joint and supports facial muscles.

Benefits of Using Oral Orthotics

When you try oral orthotics, you’ll gain several benefits. Wearing these devices relieves pressure on the joints and relaxes tense jaw muscles. This helps alleviate discomfort in the jaw, head, and neck. Oral orthotics also address clenching and grinding that can disrupt sleep. With this appliance, you’ll improve sleep quality and feel well-rested.

TMJ issues can also be associated with snoring, sleep apnea, and other sleep disorders. By repositioning the jaw and maintaining an open airway, oral orthotics can reduce breathing interruptions, promote more restful sleep, and improve TMJ disorder symptoms.

How Your Dentist Can Help

Oral orthotics may be an effective treatment option for your TMJ pain. However, you must consult an experienced dentist to determine whether they suit your condition. A consultation helps your dental team provide a personalized approach to address your needs.

During your consultation, your dental team will conduct a thorough assessment. It will include reviewing your medical history, doing a physical evaluation, and providing a diagnosis. Your dentist will discuss your potential treatment options, and if an oral orthotic is best for you, a customized fitting will be scheduled.

The custom fitting includes several steps. Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and a bite registration. These are used to create a replica of your teeth and surrounding structures. They get sent to a dental laboratory, where a technician will make your custom orthotic.

After your appliance is ready, you’ll have a fitting appointment. Your dentist will make necessary adjustments to ensure it fits comfortably. You may need follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make additional adjustments to optimize treatment outcomes.

Long-Term Management and Care

Treating a TMJ disorder requires a comprehensive approach. An oral orthotic will help, but you must adopt other methods to prevent further damage. Managing your condition may include lifestyle adjustments, such as:

• Cutting food into smaller pieces
• Avoiding sticky or hard foods
• Not chewing on hard items, such as pens
• Regular exercise
• Physical therapy

Keeping up with regular dental checkups will allow your dentist to detect potential problems early and monitor your TMJ condition.

Always remove your appliance when you brush your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean it. Putting it in extremely hot water or exposing it to hot temperatures will cause it to warp. When you remove it, lift both sides simultaneously. Lifting one side first could cause it to crack, making it ineffective.

Find Relief for TMJ Pain

If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder, schedule an appointment with a dentist for an evaluation. Contact Metro East Dental Care for TMJ pain relief, cosmetic procedures, and restorative dentistry.