Novato Dentist Discusses TMJ, Its Causes, and Treatment Options

Written by Dr. McConnell on Jul 28, 2014

TMJ is the term that many people use to refer to Temporo-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome. This is a relatively common condition that can lead to painful symptoms like severe headaches, jaw pain, teeth grinding (bruxism), and ringing in the ears.

If you suffer from TMJ, you know that the symptoms can seriously impact your quality of life. When patients first visit the Novato Dentist to discuss the problems they’re experiencing, many are unaware that their symptoms can be treated effectively by a qualified dentist.
 
Causes of TMJ


The symptoms of TMJ are most often caused by a misaligned dental bite. This may seem like a complicated problem to treat, but it is very often possible for the us to adjust a misaligned bite without the need for complicated and costly surgery.

Patients with TMJ often grind their teeth heavily, especially during the night. Over time, this constant grinding erodes the natural healthy structure of teeth. If TMJ is not treated and teeth grinding is not corrected, it can eventually lead to deterioration of the jawbone and, eventually, tooth loss. It is important for anyone experiencing the symptoms of TMJ to visit our dentist for an accurate diagnosis.

Treating the Symptoms of TMJ

There are several ways that TMJ can develop, but it is most often the result of a misaligned dental bite. In order for us to pinpoint the problem and provide appropriate treatment, we perform a “bite analysis.” The information we gather from this analysis will be used to evaluate the balance between the jaw joint, jaw muscles, and the way in which your teeth come into contact when biting or chewing.

Once a diagnosis has been established, we fit you with an FDA-approved device that is designed specifically to reduce headaches and migraines associated with TMJ. This device works to alleviate painful symptoms by balancing your bite.

However, the only way to determine the exact cause of your symptoms and the best treatment for you is to contact our Novato Dentist office and arrange for a consultation. We will work with you to find the solution that best fits your needs and restores your quality of life.