If you suffer from chronic jaw pain, stiffness, clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth, headaches, earaches, and facial pain, you might be experiencing a condition known as TMJ disorder. TMJ disorder, or temporomandibular joint disorder, refers to a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. While the exact cause of TMJ disorder is often difficult to determine, Spring Green Family Dental offers a straightforward tmj treatment in Katy, TX: night guards.
By creating a barrier between the teeth, night guards help reduce the excessive pressure exerted on the jaw, thereby minimizing discomfort and preventing further damage. Using night guards for TMJ disorders provides numerous benefits that cater to a variety of symptoms and contribute to overall oral health, including:
Our dentists evaluates your symptoms and determines if a night guard is an appropriate solution for you. This discussion may involve reviewing your dental history and the specific issues you are experiencing, such as teeth grinding or jaw pain.
If a night guard is recommended, the dentists will take impressions of the upper and lower teeth.
Your impressions are sent to the lab to create a precise model of your teeth, serving as a blueprint for a custom night guard. Crafted from durable, high-quality materials, the night guard is designed for a perfect fit, ensuring comfort and effectiveness in preventing teeth grinding or clenching.
Once the night guard is ready, you will have another appointment with your dentists. During this fitting, the dentists will check the guard’s fit and make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal comfort and functionality.
While it may not be possible to prevent TMJ disorder entirely, reducing risk factors such as managing stress, avoiding excessive jaw movements, and seeking treatment for teeth grinding can help lower the chance of developing the condition.
Some home remedies may temporarily alleviate the TMJ symptoms. These include applying ice or heat packs to the affected area, performing gentle jaw exercises, eating soft foods, and practicing relaxation techniques to reduce stress.
TMD is relatively common, affecting between 5 and 12% of adults worldwide. It occurs more frequently in women than men and is most commonly diagnosed in individuals between the ages of 20 and 40.
Aside from night guards, TMJ treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes to reduce stress, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions.
Since prevention is always better than the cure, there’s no time like the present to start caring for your smile. Team up with Spring Green Family Dental for a custom night guard today.
