Answering 5 Commonly Asked Questions About TMJ Pain Treatment

Living with jaw soreness, headaches, and earaches can affect everyday life. Often, these symptoms are caused by TMJ disorder, affecting your sleep, concentration, and eating ability. Don’t let pain take control of your life. Ridgewood Dentistry offers TMJ pain treatment to patients in and near Ridgewood, New Jersey. Visit our office today and take the first step towards a healthy, pain-free smile.

1. What is TMJ pain, and what are the causes?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that affects the hinge-like joints on both sides of the face. These jaw joints are very flexible and can move in almost every direction to help you talk, laugh, yawn, smile, etc.

Unfortunately, these jaw joints can be inflamed, strained, or misaligned, causing several unpleasant symptoms, including:

• Jaw pain or soreness
• Tension headaches
• Earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Locked jaws
• Pops and clicks when you open and close your jaws

TMJ pain can stem from various factors, but one of the most common culprits is chronic teeth grinding (bruxism). Constant grinding or clenching puts excessive strain on the jaw joints and surrounding muscles, leading to tightness, inflammation, and discomfort. Other contributing factors include arthritis, stress or anxiety, and bite misalignment, all of which can disrupt normal jaw function and trigger painful TMJ symptoms.

2. What are the treatment options for TMJ pain?

Dr. Warren Boardman understands the burden of living with TMJ pain. From painful chewing to restless nights, TMJ disorder can take a toll on your everyday life. Good news! Your Ridgewood TMJ dentist can treat TMD with simple, non-invasive treatments.

The first line of treatment for TMJ pain is often a customized nightguard (occlusal splint). This retainer-like device is worn while you sleep and is specially designed to fit your mouth snugly. It creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, reducing stress on your jaw joints and muscles. Over time, you’ll notice a significant reduction in your symptoms.

A mouthguard protects your jaw joints from bruxism-induced damage but doesn’t resolve the underlying problem. Your dentist will work with you to determine the root cause of your TMJ pain and devise additional treatments.

3. Does insurance cover TMJ pain treatment?

Coverage varies depending on your dental or medical insurance provider and the type of treatment needed. Many plans cover initial evaluations, oral appliances, and physical therapy. Our office can help you understand your benefits and work with you to make TMD treatment affordable.

4. What are the benefits of TMJ pain treatment?

The most notable benefit of TMD therapy is relief from discomfort, soreness, and pain. However, treatment in Ridgewood, NJ, provides more than that.

TMJ pain treatment can:

• Boost your mood and quality of life
• Reduce dental damage
• Improve your sleep
• Help you enjoy foods without pain, clicking, or locking

5. How can I prevent TMD?

While you can’t prevent all TMD cases, you can take steps to minimize the risk. These include.

• Avoid excessive gum chewing
• Practice stress management techniques
• Seek treatment for dental issues like misaligned teeth or bite issues
• Practice good posture and avoid resting while putting your chin on your hand

Experienced TMJ dentist near me in Ridgewood, NJ

Are you down with jaw pain, headaches, or locked jaws? Our team at Ridgewood Dentistry would love to help. Call (201) 448-8605 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Boardman. Soon, you’ll enjoy life without pain.

Share this Article