TMJ Therapy in Dallas, TX

Headaches and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder can often be a result of stress, strain, arthritis, injury, or unconscious jaw clenching and grinding of the teeth. We can utilize the NTI tension suppression mouthpiece to alleviate the over stimulation of the nerves that often lead to TMJ pain. With a few weeks or months of consistent use (only while a patient sleeps), we can help restore balance to the bite that leads to complete and long-lasting relief.

Headaches and problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are generally related to issues with the muscles and nerves on one or both sides of the head that result in jaw, face, head, or neck pain. People who experience frequent headaches may exhibit the following:

• Grinding or clenching of the teeth
• Dislocation of the soft cushion between the ball and socket
• Presence of arthritis in the TMJ
• Stress that causes tightening of the jaw muscles

The TMJ is involved with many of the functions of the muscles, ligaments, and bones in and surrounding the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders, which is why problems affect people differently. The key to effective TMJ and headache treatment is to accurately diagnose the problem so that treatment can be made.

Some of the more common temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) symptoms include:

• Frequent tension or migraine headaches
• Misaligned teeth
• Facial swelling
• Jaw joints that click or pop
• Jaws that lock into position
• Limited range of motion within the mouth
• Pain in face, jaw, neck, shoulders or around the ears

Sometimes, a misalignment of the bite can prevent the jaw muscles from ever fully relaxing, and this can cause them to develop tension and pain that radiates throughout the face and head. To correct this, our team will simply reshape a few key teeth to help the bite come together properly, allowing the jaw to reach its natural resting position, which should lead to complete pain relief.

An occlusal splint is a type of custom-made oral appliance that a patient would wear to bed, and it can help with TMJ-related issues by slightly repositioning the jaw into a more natural and relaxed orientation during the night. Over time, the jaw will adapt to this new, more functional position and learn to stay in it, helping a patient go through their day symptom-free and without pain. Some patients are even able to stop wearing the appliance after a few months of consistent use.

What causes TMJ?

There are a number of different factors that can contribute to TMJ. This includes bruxism (teeth clenching), poor genetics, and bad posture. During your assessment at Hamlett & La Mastra, DDS, we can determine the cause of your TMJ.

Is TMJ responsible for my headaches?

TMJ is one possible explanation for symptoms like chronic headaches, migraines, swelling, and facial pain. That's why it's best to visit a professional who can perform a comprehensive evaluation of your teeth and jaw.

How long does TMJ therapy take?

Mild to moderate cases of TMJ take less time to treat at Hamlett & La Mastra, DDS than more severe ones. After an examination, our specialists can give you an estimate and let you know what to expect during TMJ therapy.