TMJ disorders are caused by injury or stress to the temporomandibular joints. These joints connect the lower jaw to the skull. When they are damaged, it can impact how patients eat and speak. Dr. Michael Courter and his team offer TMJ treatment to patients in Midland, the Permian Basin, and the surrounding areas.
Treating TMJ disorders can help restore the smile. When the temporomandibular joints are under pressure and do not function properly, they can affect the teeth, jaw, and face.
Dr. Courter provides TMJ treatment and other restorative dentistry services in North Midland, Texas. Learn how to look out for the signs of TMJ disorders as well as the best options to alleviate TMJ pain below.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders can cause a lot of discomfort and pain. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms so that you can take appropriate action. Knowing the symptoms will help you to identify any potential issues early on, which could prevent further complications from developing.
The most common signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders are:
- Jaw tenderness and pain
- Migraines and headaches
- Face and neck pain
- Jaw popping and clicking
- Earaches
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Tooth wear
- Difficulty chewing
If you experience any of these symptoms it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Call our North Midland dental office if you have noticed any of these signs of TMJ disorders. Our dental care team will examine your smile to determine the best course of treatment.
How to Treat TMJ Disorders
For patients with mild TMJ symptoms, we recommend jaw exercises, eating soft foods, and using heat packs on the temporomandibular joints. Sometimes relaxing the facial muscles and being gentle on the jaw can stop early signs of TMJ disorders.
However, for patients with more moderate symptoms, particularly teeth grinding as well as tooth and jaw pain, we recommend night guards.
Night Guards for Bruxism
If you have flat or worn down teeth, or if you frequently suffer from headaches or jaw pain, you could be suffering from bruxism. This common condition causes you to grind and clench your teeth at night while you’re asleep and could do permanent damage to your pearly whites. Luckily, you can protect them by wearing a night guard.
Night guards are oral appliances worn during sleep that help stop your teeth from grinding together. These oral appliances also protect your teeth from further wear caused by bruxism.
Additionally, wearing a night guard places the jaw in a more comfortable position, alleviating pressure and stress on the joints and muscles. The night guards that Dr. Courter provides will precisely fit in your mouth so they are as comfortable as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Read answers to common questions about TMJ treatment in Midland, TX.
Can stress make TMJ symptoms worse?
When you’re feeling stressed, you might clench your jaw or grind your teeth without realizing it. This puts extra pressure on your jaw joints and muscles, which can cause more pain and discomfort. Stress can also make your muscles feel tight in your face, neck, and shoulders. Learning to relax and manage stress can help reduce these habits and make symptoms easier to control.
Can children or teenagers develop TMJ disorders?
Yes, TMJ disorders can develop in children or teens, especially if they have habits like teeth grinding, jaw clenching, or a misaligned bite. Stress and orthodontic issues can also contribute. Early signs may include jaw clicking, pain while chewing, or frequent headaches. If symptoms persist, an evaluation can help determine the best course of treatment.
What foods should I avoid if I have TMJ pain?
You should avoid hard, crunchy, chewy, or sticky foods that strain the jaw. This includes gum, tough meats, raw vegetables, and crusty bread. Soft foods like yogurt, eggs, and smoothies are easier on the jaw. Limiting these irritants can reduce pain and help prevent flare-ups.
Will TMJ treatment help with chronic neck and shoulder pain?
Yes, TMJ issues can cause muscle tension that radiates to the neck and shoulders. Treating the TMJ disorder may reduce the referred pain over time. Physical therapy, bite correction, or a custom nightguard can ease joint and muscle pressure. Improvement often depends on how long the symptoms have been present.
Can TMJ symptoms affect my ears or hearing?
TMJ disorders can lead to earaches, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or a feeling of fullness in the ear. This happens because the jaw joint is close to the ear canal. Though TMJ doesn’t usually damage hearing directly, it can mimic or contribute to ear-related discomfort.
Will TMJ treatment change the way my teeth fit together?
Some TMJ treatments, especially those involving bite correction or oral appliances, can affect your bite. The goal is to improve alignment and reduce stress on the joint. Any changes are carefully planned to maintain or enhance your bite function. Dr. Courter will explain how your specific treatment may influence tooth positioning.
How do I know if my headaches are related to TMJ?
TMJ-related headaches often feel like tension or pressure around the temples, jaw, or behind the eyes. They may worsen with chewing, talking, or clenching your teeth. If your headaches occur alongside jaw stiffness, clicking, or facial pain, TMJ may be a contributing factor. A dental exam and imaging can help identify the root cause.
Can TMJ disorders cause tooth damage?
Yes, TMJ disorders can cause tooth damage over time. Grinding and clenching your teeth can wear down your tooth enamel. These symptoms can also make your teeth look flat or uneven and may chip or crack your teeth. Wearing a night guard and treating the TMJ problem can help protect your teeth and stop further damage.
Call Our Dental Office Today
Do you have frequent jaw pain? Does your jaw pop or click when you eat hard or crunchy foods? Treat your TMJ in Dr. Courter’s Midland, Texas dental office. Call Dr. Courter today at 432-287-9531 or request a dental consultation with him online. Please let us know if you have any questions about your TMJ disorder and we can answer them for you at your next visit.