TMJ Treatment in Harrisonburg, VA
TMJ Treatment Near You
What is the TMJ?
TMJ is short for the temporomandibular joint— a hinge connecting both sides of the jaw to the base of your skull, allowing you to talk, chew, yawn, and move your mouth however you need to. TMJ disorders (sometimes called TMD) happen when something goes wrong with this joint or the muscles that surround it. This can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms.
If you need TMJ care, come into Blue Stone Hills Dentistry. Our skilled dentists near you, Dr. David Curtin and Dr. Sarah Janowski, lead the team and will make sure you acquire proper treatment so you can get back to enjoying your smile and all it can do for you.
TMJ Symptoms
A number of symptoms can arise if the TMJ is damaged, including:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Popping, clicking, or grinding sounds when moving your jaw
- Headaches or earaches
- Stiffness or locking of the jaw
- Pain while chewing
Available Treatment Options
The good news is that most TMJ problems are temporary and can be effectively addressed. Here’s a breakdown of typical treatments that are advised to patients:
1. Home Remedies
Taking it easy at home is the best place to start.
- Using hot or cold packs to reduce swelling
- Eat soft foods to avoid putting pressure on your jaw
- Avoid chewing gum because it can strain the jaw
2. Medications
For more persistent discomfort, you may want to consider:
- Pain relievers to combat inflammation
- Muscle relaxants
- Anti-anxiety meds if stress is a factor
3. Dental Treatments
Depending on the details of your case, Our dentists in Harrisonburg, VA, can suggest:
- Mouth guards or splints to prevent bruxism
- Braces to fix bite issues which can cause jaw strain
4. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help enhance jaw mobility. Some common solutions are:
- Jaw exercises to encourage relaxation
- Soft tissue massage
5. Surgery
Oral surgery is often considered as a last resort for those who cannot achieve relief through other means. It’s essential to book a consultation with a dental professional so they can assess your oral cavity and jawbone and walk you through the different options available:
- Arthrocentesis to drain fluid from the joint
- Open-joint surgery to repair or reshape the TMJ
Have Questions?
If you’re dealing with jaw or facial discomfort, don’t ignore the signs — it’s better to book a consultation with a dental clinician about receiving TMJ treatment near you than hoping your symptoms will go away on their own.
The staff at Blue Stone Hills Dentistry are dedicated to aiding patients in their time of need. Whatever form of treatment you require, we’ve got you covered! Fill out our online appointment form or call (540) 433-3625 to schedule a visit. We look forward to seeing you!
