Comfortable oral function is a key component of good dental health. If you experience chronic headaches or jaw popping, or if you grind your teeth, you may have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 10 million Americans suffer with TMJ-related discomfort at any given time.
I’m Dr. Lee Fitzgerald, and as your general and cosmetic dentist, I’ll address every aspect of your smile. Beautiful teeth are important, but smiles should also function comfortably, and dental work should last for years. At your comprehensive checkup or exam at Fitzgerald Dental Center, I’ll examine your mouth and jaw to pinpoint the source of your discomfort and prescribe customized, non-surgical treatment to restore pain-free function.
TMJ Causes & Symptoms
Many factors contribute to TMJ dysfunction, including physical and emotional stress, a misaligned bite, genetics, and trauma. When jaw joints, muscles, and nerves become aggravated, resulting pain can range from mild to debilitating.
In addition to chronic headaches or migraines, and jaw clicking or popping, patients with TMJ disorder report the following symptoms:
- Unexplained facial, neck, jaw, shoulder, or low back pain
- Inability to fully open or close their mouth
- Tingling in the fingers
- Chronic earaches
- Teeth grinding
Customized Treatments
Many patients experience relief with oral appliance therapy. A thin, comfortable mouthguard worn at night relaxes stressed jaw muscles and encourages optimal jaw joint positioning. If your discomfort stems from a misaligned bite, I may recommend gently building up the surface of your back teeth to correct your occlusion (how upper and lower teeth fit together). I can also give you tips on stress management and lifestyle changes that will promote healthy TMJ function.
Don’t let TMJ pain ruin your life. Call my leading-edge North Dallas dental office today to schedule your personal consultation and experience the healthy oral function you deserve.