TMJ/TMD
Dublin Family Dental offers advanced TMJ/TMD treatment services in Dublin, CA, to help patients find relief from the discomfort and pain associated with temporomandibular joint disorders. Our dedicated team, comprised of highly skilled dentists Dr. Cynthia Ignacio, specializes in providing effective solutions for TMJ/TMD, ensuring optimal oral health and overall well-being.
Understanding TMJ/TMD
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. It allows you to perform essential functions like chewing, speaking, and yawning. However, when the TMJ is affected by a disorder, it can lead to various symptoms collectively known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
What are the Symptoms of TMJ?
TMD can result from several factors, including jaw misalignment, teeth grinding (bruxism), stress, arthritis, or injury to the jaw. Common signs and symptoms of TMD include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
- Limited jaw movement or difficulty opening and closing the mouth
- Facial pain or headaches
- Earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Jaw locking or getting stuck in an open or closed position
What are the Common Causes of TMJ/TMD?
TMJ/TMD can be caused by various factors, including jaw misalignment, teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), arthritis, stress, and jaw injury. In some cases, the exact cause may be difficult to determine.
Comprehensive TMJ/TMD Treatment
Dublin Family Dental offers a comprehensive approach to TMJ/TMD treatment, focusing on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of the disorder. Our dentists will perform a thorough examination, evaluate your medical history, and discuss your symptoms to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
- Conservative Therapies: In many cases, non-invasive and conservative treatments can alleviate TMJ/TMD symptoms. These may include lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, physical therapy exercises, and oral appliances, such as splints or nightguards, to minimize teeth grinding or clenching.
- Occlusal Adjustment: A misaligned bite can contribute to TMJ/TMD symptoms. Our dentists may recommend an occlusal adjustment, which involves reshaping the surfaces of the teeth to improve their alignment and relieve pressure on the TMJ. This treatment can help restore balance and alleviate discomfort.
- Orthodontic Treatment: Orthodontic treatment may be necessary to correct the bite for patients with significant jaw misalignment or malocclusion. Orthodontic options, such as braces or clear aligners, can gradually shift the teeth into their optimal position, improving jaw alignment and reducing TMD symptoms.
- Medications: In some cases, we may prescribe some medications to manage pain, reduce inflammation, or relax the jaw muscles. These may include over-the-counter pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Surgical Intervention: Our dentists may recommend surgical intervention as a last resort if conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief. Surgical TMJ/TMD treatment procedures are typically reserved for severe cases and involve repairing or replacing damaged joint structures.
Compassionate Care from Dr. Cynthia Ignacio
Dr. Cynthia Ignacio are devoted to providing compassionate care to patients suffering from TMJ/TMD. With their expertise in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders, they strive to improve your quality of life by alleviating pain and restoring comfort. Their gentle approach and commitment to patient well-being make them ideal for TMJ/TMD treatment in Dublin, CA.
To diagnose TMJ/TMD, your dentist will perform a comprehensive evaluation, which includes a thorough examination of the jaw joint and surrounding structures, reviewing your medical history, and discussing your symptoms. In some cases, we may use additional diagnostic tools like X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to assess the condition of the TMJ and rule out other potential causes.
TMJ Treatment in Dublin, CA
If you are experiencing TMJ/TMD symptoms and seeking relief, Dublin Family Dental is here to help. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with our experienced dentists, Dr. Cynthia Ignacio. We will thoroughly evaluate your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. Don’t let TMJ/TMD symptoms keep you from enjoying a pain-free and comfortable life. Take the first step toward relief by contacting us today.