20
May
What are Your Best Options for TMJ Treatment?
Jaw pain, painful chewing, migraines and restricted jaw movements could all be signs of TMJ dysfunction, which is often referred to as just TMJ. Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward managing this condition. A dental evaluation by Dr. Andy Stein from Stein Family Dentistry in Spokane, Washington, can determine if TMJ is causing your symptoms. By answering your questions about this condition, we can help you make wise choices for treatment.
What exactly is TMJ?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joints, which are the joints that control your jaw movements. They’re on either side of your face in front of your ears. When these joints function properly, you have full jaw mobility for talking, eating, yawning, laughing, etc. Dysfunction of your TMJs can lead to jaw pain, restricted jaw mobility, headaches, earaches and other painful symptoms.
What can cause TMJ pain? Â
Various factors can contribute to TMJ, including jaw trauma, arthritis, teeth clenching, teeth grinding, stress, and bite problems. In some cases, TMJ can be caused by poor genetics. Excessive gum chewing or bad habits of chewing on ice or hard objects can also contribute to this condition.
What are some common TMJ symptoms? Â
Jaw pain and painful chewing are some of the most common TMJ symptoms. Other symptoms include:
- A clicking or popping sound when you open and close your mouth
- Migraine headaches
- Earaches
- Restricted jaw movement, making it hard to chew
- Facial or neck pain
- Uneven wear on your teeth due to teeth grinding
Many of these symptoms can also be attributed to other oral or health issues, so it’s important to properly diagnose your condition. Dr. Stein at our dental clinic can do this.
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How long does TMJ pain last?
Mild TMJ symptoms often subside independently after a few days or weeks. OTC pain medications or anti-inflammatories can help relieve your symptoms, as can switching to a soft food diet during this period. If your pain persists, becomes more severe or keeps coming back, you’d do well to see your Spokane dentist. We’ll pinpoint the cause of your pain and offer treatment recommendations.
What are my best options for TMJ treatment?
There are multiple options for treating TMJ and relieving painful symptoms. These include:
- Medication to ease pain and inflammation
- Custom mouthguard to manage bruxism symptoms Â
- Meditation, exercise or other activities to reduce stress
- Jaw exercises to improve jaw flexibility and strength
- Botox injections to relax tension in your face and jaw Â
- Orthodontics to correct bite issues that may be aggravating your condition
In extreme cases, Dr. Stein may recommend jaw surgery to ease your symptoms. We’ll work with you to determine the right treatment for you. Â
Who can help with TMJ treatment near me?
You can contact Dr. Andy Stein from Stein Family Dentistry for TMJ diagnosis and treatment if you live in or near Spokane, WA. To schedule a consultation, feel free to call (509) 463-1770 as soon as possible.
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Dr. Andy Stein is the owner and Lead Dentist of Stein Family Dentistry. He graduated from Oregon Institute of Technology with a Degree in Biology and Business, received his Doctorate of Medical Dentistry from the Oregon Health Science University, and completed his general practice residency program at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Salt Lake City. He worked for a community health center for three years, developing his skills in and passion for dentistry.
Dr. Stein is a member of the American Dental Association, Washington State Dental Association, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and the Frank Spear Study Club. He was an active leader in the Southern Oregon Dental Society before relocating to Spokane. He is very enthusiastic about continuing education.