Your temporomandibular joint is located close to your ear, between your upper and lower jaw. People with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) can experience severe pain or discomfort that may either be temporary or last for many years. Your doctor at Acacia Family Dental must perform a complete dental and medical evaluation to properly diagnose TMD. If you experience any of these symptoms, you may be suffering from Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD):
The first line of treatment will typically be the use of a splint or oral appliance. A TMJ splint or oral appliance is worn to reduce the stress on the jaw. This allows the muscles to function properly and may reposition the lower jaw to fall properly into the TMJ socket.
TMJ appliances are a conservative and reversible treatment option that may provide pain relief. There are many different types of splints and appliances that your doctor can fabricate for you. Your doctor will complete a clinical examination, use radiographs and your symptoms to help you decide the best treatment for you.
Call Acacia Family Dental today to schedule a consultation and ask us about our TMD treatment options.
Tips for TMD Relief:
- Sleep on your back
- Try to reduce any extra stress
- Avoid chewing on gum, ice or anything too hard or sticky
- Avoid caramel, apples, hard or crunchy foods
- Avoid extreme jaw movements, as much as possible
- Eat soft foods that don’t require much chewing (yogurt, cottage cheese, soup, scrambled eggs, fish and grains)
- When you need to yawn, place your fist under your chin and apply upward pressure. This can help keep your mouth from opening too wide.
Occlusal (Night) Guards
A nightguard is the most common treatment option for the symptoms of TMD. Clenching or grinding your teeth at night, can damage the enamel of your teeth beyond repair. A night guard allows you to sleep comfortably, while protecting your teeth from erosive habits. A night guard is a plastic appliance that is professionally made by your doctor at Acacia Family Dental. The appliance is worn at night and can either be worn on the top or bottom arch. It is designed to protect the teeth from the pressure of clenching and grinding, by providing a protective cushion between the upper and lower teeth. It is perfect for patients with bruxism (clenching and grinding) and chronic jaw pain. This mouth guard can help relax your jaw and allow you to rest easy. A night guard is a simple, non-invasive, affordable treatment option for protecting your teeth and jaws from the damaging effects of bruxism.
NTI Night Guard
The NTI night guard is a small appliance that is worn at night to prevent bruxing, clenching and muscle pain that is associated with muscle dysfunction. Unlike a traditional night guard, the NTI is very small and only covers the front teeth.
The NTI night guard protects the teeth, muscles and joints, by reducing the intensity of jaw clenching while you sleep! The NTI is more comfortable, less bulky and won’t trigger a gag reflex. This means that patients tend to love it! The NTI has been proven to be an excellent alternative to full coverage night guards.
