TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, can cause significant discomfort and pain. Dr. Forgosh in Allentown, PA, offers specialized treatment options to help patients. We want to help patients manage and alleviate their TMJ symptoms. Our goal is to provide effective and personalized care. In dentistry, the way your teeth come together when you bite is called your “occlusion.” If you have a healthy bite, you can expect long-term comfort, stability, and functional esthetics. However, an unstable bite can lead to a host of problems, collectively known as Occlusal Disease.
Understanding TMJ and Occlusal Disease
Just as the proper alignment of the wheels on your car is critical for performance and safety, the alignment of your teeth and jaw joints is necessary for you to be able to chew comfortably and smile with confidence. The seemingly simple action of chewing actually requires exquisitely complex coordination between the teeth, jaws, muscles, and the Temporo-Mandibular Joints (TMJs).
Causes of TMJ and Occlusal Disease
- Stress and Anxiety: Stress and anxiety are common contributors to TMJ. When under stress, people might clench their jaw or grind their teeth, leading to strain on the temporomandibular joints. This can exacerbate existing conditions or trigger new symptoms.
- Teeth Grinding: Bruxism or teeth grinding, is another leading cause of TMJ. This condition often occurs during sleep and can wear down the teeth and place undue pressure on the jaw joints. Over time, this can result in the development of TMJ symptoms.
- Jaw Misalignment: Misalignment of the jaw can also contribute to TMJ. When the upper and lower teeth do not fit together correctly, it can cause an imbalance in the jaw muscles and joints. This misalignment can lead to pain and other TMJ-related issues.
TMJ and Occlusal Disease Symptoms
Individuals with TMJ may experience jaw pain, headaches, earaches, and difficulty in opening or closing the mouth. Some patients also report a clicking or popping sound when moving their jaw. These symptoms can vary in severity and duration, making it essential to seek professional evaluation.
Without the precise coordination of your teeth and jaws, the forces generated when you bite and chew can cause a whole host of signs and symptoms of Occlusal Disease, including broken and worn teeth, crooked teeth and loose teeth, headaches, jaw pain, sensitivity, recession, clenching, and grinding.
Our job is to identify these signs and symptoms of Occlusal Disease and discover the source of the problems. This enables us to develop the most predictable solution, employing the least amount of dentistry necessary. The ultimate goal of treatment is to have the jaw joints seated fully in their sockets and all the teeth hitting evenly at the same time when you bite down, while only the front teeth touch when rubbing your teeth forward or side to side.
TMJ Treatment Options
When recommending treatment, Dr. Forgosh uses a simple rule taught to him by one of his mentors, Dr. Peter Dawson. It’s called the WIDIOM rule: Would I Do It On Me?
Four Steps for Proper Diagnosis of Bite Problems:
- History: A detailed history of your symptoms and concerns is recorded.
- Comprehensive Exam: A thorough physical examination of your teeth, muscles and jaw joints is conducted. This includes dental x-rays, periodontal evaluation, and an oral cancer screening.
- Diagnostic Photographs: These images help us communicate with you and our dental ceramist so you can see what we see, and we can be sure to be on the same page. We also use these photos to make informed decisions when developing our treatment plan.
- 3D Analysis of your bite: We use accurate models of your teeth mounted on a special instrument that allows us to see how your teeth come together when you bite, assess the current condition of your occlusion, and develop an appropriate plan for treatment.
Based on our findings, together with your input regarding any esthetic changes you may want to incorporate, we are able to develop the most predictable and conservative treatment to meet your goals.
Lifestyle Changes
Making certain lifestyle changes can help manage TMJ symptoms. Stress reduction techniques, such as relaxation exercises and mindfulness, can be beneficial. Avoiding hard or chewy foods and practicing good posture can also alleviate strain on the jaw.
Mouthguards and Splints
Mouthguards and splints are commonly recommended for TMJ patients. These devices help to prevent teeth grinding and jaw clenching, which reduces pressure on the temporomandibular joints. Custom-made appliances ensure a proper fit and maximum effectiveness.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can play a vital role in treating TMJ. Specific exercises can strengthen and stretch the jaw muscles, improving flexibility and reducing pain. Our team can guide patients through these exercises to ensure they are performed correctly.
Medications
Certain medications may also be prescribed to manage TMJ symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants can provide relief. In some cases, a healthcare professional may recommend prescription medications for more severe symptoms.
Customized Treatment Plans
Every patient is unique, and so are their TMJ symptoms. Dr. Forgosh focuses on creating customized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs. By addressing the specific factors contributing to TMJ, we aim to provide effective and lasting relief. If you are experiencing TMJ symptoms, contact Dr. Forgosh in Allentown, PA, today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you find the relief you need.