When you have jaw pain and headaches, the cause could be related to jaw joint strain and bite imbalance, which leads to TMJ disorder. Unless addressed, pain could worsen and you could develop complications like bruxism (teeth grinding). To provide relief and restore the balance of your smile, your Fort Worth, TX, orthodontist may suggest treatment with a custom oral appliance.
The Discomfort of TMJ Disorder
People with TMJ disorder, also referred to as TMD, often report a host of uncomfortable symptoms. For example, popping or crackling sensations in the jaw are often encountered. Symptoms could also include headaches, migraines, jaw pain, and aches in the face, neck, and shoulders. If you experience one or more of these common warning signs, you should let us know right away so we can perform a detailed diagnosis and recommend the right treatment option.
Causes and Complications
The causes are often issues that upset the balance of the bite and strain your temporomandibular joints, which connect your jaw and skull. Common causes include tooth loss, dental misalignment, stress, and injury to the face or jaw. Unless treated, the disorder could worsen strain and lead to trouble opening and closing your mouth. You could also develop a related disorder known as bruxism, which causes you to grind and clench your teeth at night, eventually damaging your smile and leading to tooth sensitivity, toothaches, cavities, and dental infection. Treatment helps protect not only your comfort, but the health and stability of your smile too!
Treatment with Oral Appliance Therapy
A common solution is an oral appliance. Th device will look and fit like q simple mouthguard, but the device is designed to help reposition the jaw and ease strain, so you avoid symptoms and enjoy a more balanced bite. We craft the device after taking detailed digital images with the iTero® digital scanning system. The resulting images let us create a 3D model and custom-fit the device to your smile. The appliance is worn at night. If you grind your teeth, the device will also place a barrier between the upper and lower teeth to prevent damage. We could also discuss orthodontic care if misalignment is a factor, and to ease symptoms at home be sure you avoid hard or chewy foods and caffeinated products. A warm washcloth against the side of the face could also ease tension. If you have any questions, then give us a call today!
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT TMJ DISORDER?
Our team wants to restore bite balance and prevent discomfort related to jaw joint strain. To learn more about our custom oral appliances, then please call Lake Country Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX at (817) 236-7846. Our office proudly serves patients who live in Springtown, Rome, and all surrounding communities.
