The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the complicated hinge that attaches the jaw to the skull and gives it its incredible range of movement. Unfortunately, it can become quite painful if its parts fall out of balance. Here’s a brief guide to what TMJ disorder is and how Dr. Voto can treat it. Contact our Owasso dental office today if any of the symptoms listed here sound familiar so we can provide the expert care you need.
Small doesn't always mean simple! The joints located in front of your ears, while not much larger than quarters, are the most used in the human body and responsible for hundreds of movements of the mouth per day. Known as the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), they allow you to open and close your mouth comfortably.
The TMJ can fall out of alignment due to excessive stress caused by vigorous chewing or teeth grinding. This imbalance can cause chronic discomfort of the jaw, neck, head, and back and lead to uneven enamel wear and clicking or popping sounds when the mouth moves.
Symptoms of TMJ dysfunction include:
At Jayson D. Voto, D.D.S. Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we can successfully treat TMJ dysfunction and eliminate headache-related pain using safe, effective, and comfortable treatments. During your consultation, our team will discuss your treatment options and help determine which method would be the best way to fulfill your needs. The most suitable treatment for your TMJ disorder depends on the severity of the case and what is causing it.
For most people, an oral appliance that realigns the jaws can remedy the issue and provide relief from nagging symptoms. This device will help protect the teeth from grinding while shifting the jaw into a more forward position, which will help the joints align comfortably and relieve persistent TMJ pain.
We also offer Botox therapy, which can safely help relax muscle tension and immediately soothe chronic pain. This treatment uses a small amount of botulinum toxin to prevent stressful movements of the jaw, which can relieve it of much unnecessary strain and inflammation. However, the results of BOTOX treatment are not permanent, so patients will have to come back for periodic retreatments.