As the hinges upon which your jaw opens and closes, your temporomandibular joints (TMJs) largely dictate how well your bite functions. When the joints are damaged or forced out of alignment, the impeded movement can generate debilitating levels of discomfort. For many patients, restoring symmetry to their bites can help relieve the discomfort that stems from TMJ disorder. Fortunately, treating TMJ disorder can often be accomplished with a small, comfortable oral appliance that you only have to wear at night.
Determining if It’s TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder isn’t confined to a single cause. To remain healthy and fully-functional, your jaw and teeth must maintain a proper balance, or the joints can suffer as the jaw struggles to keep your bite properly aligned. Because the symptoms of TMJ disorder (including headaches and earaches) can often be misleading, diagnosing the condition and its exact cause can be difficult. However, with a thorough examination, your dentist can determine if you can benefit from personalized TMJ treatment.
Ways to Relieve TMJ Discomfort
TMJ treatment depends on the source of your jaw troubles. For instance, if crooked and misaligned teeth are the source for your bite imbalance, then orthodontic treatment may be required to improve your bite’s symmetry. If your jawbone is injured or malformed, then corrective maxillofacial surgery may be the only recourse. Most patients, however, suffer from a relatively simple bite imbalance that can be effectively addressed with a custom-designed oral appliance. Worn while you sleep, the appliance can help your jaw joints and muscles rest comfortably and heal, alleviating the discomfort of TMJ disorder.
Ask Your Dentist About TMJ Treatment
If you suffer from chronic jaw pain, headaches, and other symptoms of TMJ disorder, then speak to your dentist about finding relief through appropriate dental treatment. To learn more, schedule a consultation with your dentist by calling Syosset Dental in Syosset, NY today at 516-433-2211 or 516-921-1678.
