TMJ Treatment – Toledo, OH
You Don’t Need to Live with Jaw Pain
Have you been suffering from constant jaw pain that simply won’t go away? Your discomfort may be related to a TMJ disorder, which is an issue with the joint that allows you to move your jaw when you speak, bite, and chew. But there’s no need to force yourself to live with the discomfort; our dentists at Dental Group West have multiple ways to help you achieve the relief you deserve! Call us today to learn more about the various options we offer for TMJ treatment in Toledo.
Why Choose Dental Group West for TMJ Treatment?
- Fully Customized Oral Appliances
- Knowledgeable, Caring Dental Team
- Dental Care That Puts Patients First
What is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located just in front of each ear. It is a complex joint that has many muscles controlling it. If there’s a problem with the TMJ or the surrounding muscles, the result is a TMJ disorder, which is often very painful.
It’s worth noting that a TMJ disorder can have multiple causes. Common risk factors include arthritis, jaw injury, frequent grinding and clenching of the teeth, and stress.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
A TMJ disorder often causes consistent jaw pain. You might also experience pain when chewing. You may hear a clicking sound whenever you open your mouth, and your jaw may have limited movements; in some cases, it might even get stuck. Sometimes you could experience ear pain and/or tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Other symptoms include headaches, vertigo, back pain, and worsened sleep apnea.
TMJ symptoms can come and go, but they might become especially pronounced during times of stress when you clench your teeth more often or when you are dealing with anxiety.
What Happens If TMJ Disorder Isn’t Treated?
While TMJ disorders aren’t considered life-threatening, their symptoms take a toll over time. Living with constant jaw pain will eventually start to impact your quality of life; your mood in general will be more negative, and you may even be at a higher risk of developing depression.
The symptoms associated with TMJ disorders – joint pain, sleep apnea, and headaches – can become worse over time. Furthermore, if the disorder is caused by grinding or clenching (a condition known as bruxism that can happen during the day or at night), your teeth may start to wear down, which can lead to bite problems that can make TMJ issues even worse.
Types of TMJ Treatment
Stress relief and bite correction are good ways to treat the source of a TMJ disorder, but many patients need relief from the pain as soon as possible. We’re proud to offer the following non-surgical options for TMJ treatment.
Custom Nightguards
If your TMJ disorder is linked to nighttime bruxism, it may be possible to address the issue with a customized nightguard. When you wear a nightguard to bed, it acts as a barrier between the upper and lower arches of teeth. Not only does this help prevent dental damage, but it also reduces the pressure on your TMJ, giving it a chance to recover.
Occlusal Splint
An occlusal splint is a type of oral appliance that moves the jaw slightly forward when worn at night. This helps the jaw find a more natural resting position, which can go a long way toward relieving your TMJ symptoms. When you come to our office for an occlusal splint, you can rest assured that the completed appliance will be customized to fit comfortably in your mouth.
Supplementary Therapies
In addition to providing you with a custom nightguard or an occlusal splint, our team may also recommend certain supplementary therapies to address your TMJ disorder. This can potentially include certain kinds of medication, muscle massages, moist heat therapy, and physical therapy. You can count on us to point you toward the treatment option that’s right for you based on your specific circumstances.
TMJ Treatment FAQs
How Long Does It Take a TMJ Oral Appliance to Work?
Every case differs. Some patients experience relief within a few days, while it can take many months for others. Initially, you’ll have to adjust to wearing the oral appliance. It may feel bulky or heavy. You may experience a few side effects, like excessive salivation, tooth pain, or dry mouth. Within a week or two, you will have adjusted to the device. You may even forget you are wearing it.
Can TMJ Be Cured Permanently?
No two cases of TMJ disorder are identical. The condition can be caused by various factors, such as a past injury or a bad bite. Depending on the underlying cause, TMJ disorder can sometimes be cured. No matter the cause, most patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms after treatment. Some may subside altogether. However, it’s not unusual for symptoms to flare periodically, but you can decrease the frequency of such occurrences with TMJ treatment.
Is TMJ Treatment Covered by Medical or Dental Insurance?
TMJ treatment can be covered by your medical or dental insurance, depending on the cause and treatment needed. If you require surgical intervention, your medical coverage may pick up some or all of the expenses. If you’re referred to a dentist in Toledo, your dental insurance will probably be used. Our office will work on your behalf with your insurance to maximize your coverage to keep TMJ treatment within your budget.
Is TMJ Treatment Expensive?
You can’t put a price on the benefits of stopping your jaw pain. There’s no flat fee for TMJ treatment because there isn’t a cookie-cutter treatment plan. Many factors will affect the amount you will pay. After examining your mouth and creating a personalized strategy to improve your jaw function, we will provide you with an estimate and explain the fees. Our office offers various financial solutions to keep treatment affordable, like monthly payments using a third-party financing company.
Can TMJ Disorder Be Treated without Surgery?
Dentists and healthcare professionals always strive for a conservative approach when treating TMJ disorders. While surgery can improve the condition, it’s reserved for patients with severe cases of TMJ disorder. It may be recommended for patients who haven’t had success using other methods. Our office offers many noninvasive solutions to improve jaw function and stop recurring symptoms, like oral appliances.