Jaw Pain and TMJ

Jaw pain can significantly impact daily life, causing discomfort and limiting your ability to perform simple tasks like eating or speaking. At Coastal Sleep and TMJ in Poquoson, VA, Dr. William Harper and his team provide specialized care for those experiencing jaw pain and temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ). Jaw pain and TMJ disorders can greatly impact your quality of life, but effective treatments are available

What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull, enabling you to move your jaw for activities like speaking, chewing, and yawning. TMJ disorders occur when there are problems with the muscles and joints in your jaw. These disorders can cause significant pain and discomfort. Dr. William Harper at Coastal Sleep and TMJ specializes in diagnosing and treating these issues.

Teeth Grinding

One common cause of TMJ disorders is bruxism, or teeth grinding. This condition often occurs during sleep and places excessive pressure on the jaw muscles and joints. Over time, this pressure can lead to inflammation and pain in the TMJ.

Stress

Stress can also contribute to TMJ disorders. When stressed, individuals may clench their jaw or grind their teeth, which can strain the jaw muscles and joints. Reducing stress through relaxation techniques or counseling can help alleviate TMJ symptoms.

Misalignment of Jaw

A misaligned jaw, whether caused by injury, arthritis, or congenital conditions, can lead to TMJ disorders. When the jaw is not properly aligned, it places uneven pressure on the joints and muscles, resulting in pain and dysfunction.

Symptoms of TMJ

There are a variety of different signs of TMJ. When you go to your regular appointments, your dentist should be able to quickly identify these signs. Then, they can suggest solutions.

Jaw Pain

Jaw pain is the most common symptom of TMJ disorders. This pain may be localized to the joint area or spread to the neck and shoulders. It can range from a dull ache to sharp, debilitating pain.

Clicking or Popping Sounds

Many individuals with TMJ disorders experience clicking or popping sounds when they open or close their mouths. These sounds occur when the joint moves out of place, often due to inflammation or misalignment.

Headaches

TMJ disorders can also cause headaches, often resembling tension headaches. The strain on the jaw muscles and joints can radiate pain to the temples, making it difficult to distinguish from other types of headaches.

Diagnosis of TMJ

Dr. William Harper at Coastal Sleep and TMJ will begin the diagnosis with a thorough dental examination. He will assess your jaw movement, listen for clicking or popping sounds, and check for tenderness in the jaw muscles. This examination helps identify the presence of TMJ disorders and their severity.

Imaging Tests

In some cases, Dr. Harper may recommend imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to get a detailed view of the jaw structure and joints. These tests provide valuable information on the alignment and condition of the TMJ, allowing for a more accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Treatment Options for TMJ

At our office, we have different options to treat your TMJ issues. Dr. Harper can go over your treatment options during your appointment.

Night Guards

One effective treatment for TMJ disorders involves the use of custom-made night guards. These devices help prevent teeth grinding and clenching during sleep, reducing the pressure on the jaw joints and muscles. Dr. Harper will create a night guard that fits your mouth perfectly for optimal comfort and effectiveness.

Medications

In some cases, medications can help manage TMJ symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants can reduce pain and inflammation in the jaw. Dr. Harper will discuss appropriate medication options and dosages based on your condition and medical history.

At Coastal Sleep and TMJ in Poquoson, VA, Dr. William Harper and his team are dedicated to providing personalized care for TMJ patients. If you are experiencing jaw pain or TMJ symptoms, contact Coastal Sleep and TMJ to schedule a consultation with Dr. William Harper and start your journey to relief.