TMJ stands for temporal-mandibular joint, which acts as a hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull. Complications in this joint may arise due to misalignment of the teeth, clenching, grinding, or excessive muscle tension. Symptoms in the TMJ can arise and include headaches, earaches, popping or clicking of the jaw, neck stiffness, and facial muscle pain or soreness. Our doctors have various methods for TMJ treatments, including professional occlusal guards (“Nightguards”).
At your appointment with our doctors, a TMJ assessment will be performed, checking your range of movement, feeling for tightness or tension in your facial muscles, examining your teeth for signs of clenching and grinding, and checking for clicking or popping in the jaw. After your assessment and proper diagnosis, a 3D scan or impression of your teeth is taken and sent to our laboratory to create a strong, durable occlusal guard that can be worn day or night. Our occlusal guards are individually designed and customized to fit your mouth perfectly.
During your second appointment, we will have your new occlusal guard ready for you. Our doctors will ensure perfect fit. We will review homecare instructions, including how to clean your new occlusal guard, how to store it, and when to wear it. Occlusal guards are most often worn at night, but can also be worn while watching TV on the couch or sitting at your office desk to prevent damage to the teeth. People who grind their teeth or unintentionally clench down too hard when they sleep can cause pain and damage to their teeth.
Let us take away your pain
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’ve been referred by your dentist or not, getting started is as simple as contacting us to schedule your first consultation. We recommend you complete any needed forms before your appointment to save time.
We work hard to provide each patient with the best possible experience from the moment they come through the door. That’s why we’ll guide you, answer all your questions, and provide you with the customized solutions that you deserve, so you can feel as comfortable as possible.
