Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can be a source of chronic pain, affecting the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. For those in Brentwood and Murfreesboro, coping with TMJ may seem discouraging, but the good news is that effective treatment and relief are within reach. At Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions in Brentwood and Murfreesboro TN, we offer comprehensive TMJ solutions.
Demystifying TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders refer to a variety of conditions that affect the temporomandibular joint, a sliding hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull. This joint is located on each side of your head in front of your ears, and it allows you to move your jaw up and down and side to side so you can talk, chew, and yawn.
When something goes awry with the TMJ, it can result in a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. Common signs of TMJ disorders include:
- Aching pain in or around the ear
- Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
- Aching facial pain
- Clicking or popping sounds in the joint when opening or closing the mouth
- Headaches
These symptoms can be temporary or can last for many years. They might affect one or both sides of the face. Women are more likely to develop TMJ disorders than men.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of a person’s TMJ disorder may be difficult to determine. Your pain might be due to a combination of factors, such as genetics, arthritis, or jaw injury. Some people who have jaw pain also tend to clench or grind their teeth, although many people with a clicking jaw do not develop TMJ disorders. Other possible causes of TMJ disorders include:
- Presence of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the TMJ
- Stress, which can cause a person to tighten facial and jaw muscles or clench the teeth
- Injury to the jaw joint
- Unusual movement of the disc or shock-absorbing cartilage that lines the TMJ
Understanding the potential triggers of your TMJ pain is vital in developing a treatment plan that effectively addresses and reduces your symptoms.
Diagnosis and Professional Treatment Approaches
Seeking a professional diagnosis from our team and starting on an appropriate treatment path is essential for anyone dealing with TMJ disorders. Here in Brentwood and Murfreesboro, there are several approaches to managing this condition.
Diagnosis
A thorough medical history is the first step in diagnosing a TMJ disorder. Your healthcare provider will listen for the telltale sounds of TMJ when you move your jaw, such as clicking or popping. They’ll also check the range of motion in your jaw and the areas of localized pain.
Imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, can provide more detailed information on the joint and disc position. Dental impressions for a mouth guard may be taken if a person is diagnosed with teeth grinding or clenching.
Treatment Options
Treatment for TMJ disorders ranges from conservative to more invasive, depending on the severity of the condition.
Conservative treatments:
- Pain management with medications like anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants
- Relaxation techniques to help manage stress and reduce clenching of the jaw or grinding of the teeth
- Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the jaw muscles
- Use of oral splints or mouth guards to prevent clenching or grinding
Invasive treatments:
- Injections directly into the joint
- Arthrocentesis, which involves flushing the joint with a special solution
- Surgery to repair or replace the joint
In many cases, a combination of conservative treatments provides relief without the need for invasive procedures. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a personalized plan that addresses your symptoms and their underlying causes.
The Role of Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions
We specialize in the treatment of TMJ disorders can be incredibly beneficial in your pursuit of relief. We focus on diagnosing and treating issues with the teeth, gums, and jaw. They can offer services such as:
- Occlusal equilibration, which involves adjusting the biting surfaces of teeth
- Full mouth reconstruction
- Orthodontic treatment
- Restorative dental work
Beyond our dental professionals, therapists who specialize in the temporomandibular joint and its related musculature can provide targeted interventions, such as:
- Myofascial release therapy
- Trigger point therapy
- Ultrasound therapy
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
Collaborating with these specialists can add layers of expertise to your treatment strategy, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your TMJ disorder management.
Finding Relief in Brentwood and Murfreesboro, TN
Living with TMJ disorders can be a significant challenge, but it’s a condition that can be managed and treated effectively to improve quality of life. In the Brentwood and Murfreesboro areas, our professionals offer their expertise and a wealth of resources to support those dealing with TMJ issues.
Take the first step towards a pain-free jaw by reaching out to our dedicated practitioners in your community and exploring the options tailored to your needs.
Contact Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions:
615-621-4663
Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):
1177 Old Hickory Blvd, Suite 203
Brentwood, TN 370271605 Medical Center Pkwy, Suite 215
Murfreesboro, TN 37129