Should I switch to soft foods during a TMJ flare?
Soft foods can be easier to manage during a TMJ flare. You may find that a temporary soft-food diet helps irritation and inflammation in the jaw to settle down.
If you’re suffering from jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds when you chew, or a sensation that your jaw is locking up, you may be suffering from a TMJ disorder. Dr. Ewa Awad provides non-surgical, non-invasive treatment for TMJ disorders at Dentex Smile Studio in Morristown, NJ.
How is TMJ Treated at Dentex Smile Studio?
TMJ is shorthand for disorders of the temporomandibular joint, which connects the lower jaw to the skull. When the joint becomes irritated or inflamed, painful symptoms often follow. TMJ disorders are incredibly common and the vast majority will be treated by dentists using non-surgical treatments.
At Dentex Smile Studio, Dr. Awad provides treatment for TMJ due to teeth grinding (bruxism) and arthritis of the joint with Botox injections and custom night guards. When the jaw is clenched, the temporomandibular joint sustains excessive pressure. This leads to not only irritation and inflammation of the joint, but also puts excessive strain on the teeth, which can lead to weakening, decay, chips, and even fractures.
Procedures Offered
Botox is a neurotoxin that is injected which temporarily paralyzes the muscles responsible for clenching and grinding the teeth. Botox will be injected into specific muscles near the jaw joint, and temples, to prevent clenching and grinding while sleeping. Many patients experience relief from Botox injections within just a few days. Botox injections may need to be repeated a few times a year for sustained relief.
Custom nightguards that prevent grinding and clenching are another common treatment for TMJ pain due to bruxism. Custom nightguards are manufactured from high-quality plastic and are worn while sleeping. Custom nightguards relieve stress on the joint, reducing or eliminating painful symptoms of TMJ
Why Choose Dentex Smile Studio?
At Dentex Smile Studio, Dr. Awad takes time to listen to your specific symptoms and concerns. We schedule longer appointment times for each patient so that Dr. Awad has plenty of time to accurately diagnose and design a treatment plan for TMJ.
We aim to provide a therapeutic experience at Dentex Smile Studio. You’ll be treated in a private room and encouraged to ask as many questions as you like. If you opt for Botox injections for TMJ, your treatment can be provided the same day. If you’re ordering a custom mouth guard, you’ll have painless digital impressions taken, so that your mouth guard can be created quickly.
We aim to provide a therapeutic experience at Dentex Smile Studio. You’ll be treated in a private room and encouraged to ask as many questions as you like. If you opt for Botox injections for TMJ, your treatment can be provided the same day. If you’re ordering a custom mouth guard, you’ll have painless digital impressions taken, so that your mouth guard can be created quickly.
Signs You Need TMJ Treatment
TMJ symptoms often develop over time. Symptoms may initially arise as a moderate ache, before progressing to severe pain that may extend to the cheeks and ears, and down the neck to the shoulders. Early signs of irritation or inflammation in the jaw joint include:
- Soreness in the jaw joint
- Clicking or popping sound when you chew or open the mouth
- Difficulty chewing
- Headache
- Tooth pain (often the molars)
- A sensation that the jaw is “locking up”
- Aching sensation near the ear
- Facial pain
- Stiffness in the jaw muscles
TMJ may flare up in times of high stress. Although stress is not the direct cause of TMJ, stressful periods in life increase the likelihood of clenching or grinding the teeth. Many patients benefit from relaxation exercises, including mindful meditation, breathing exercises, stretching exercises such as yoga or tai chi, and other activities that reduce stress.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Treatment
How long should I wait to see a dentist for TMJ?
If mild symptoms persist for a week or longer, schedule a dental appointment. If you develop sudden, sharp pain in the jaw, see a dentist as soon as possible.
Will Botox injections for TMJ be covered by insurance?
Unfortunately, most dental plans will not cover Botox injections for TMJ. Some dental plans may offer coverage for a custom night guard. Check with your insurance carrier for specific allowances.
Will TMJ go away on its own?
TMJ can resolve on its own. TMJ symptoms often flare and subside. However, the painful symptoms may return if the underlying cause is not treated.
What can I do at home to reduce TMJ symptoms?
An ice pack on the outside of the jaw can help to reduce swelling and irritation. If you have been diagnosed with arthritis, you likely know that painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce symptoms. Over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol, Ibuprofen (Advil), or Aleve may offer temporary relief.
Is TMJ a chronic condition?
Unfortunately, many people will experience chronic symptoms of TMJ. Others may only experience TMJ symptoms occasionally.
Will a mouth guard from the store help reduce my TMJ symptoms?
Dr. Awad does not recommend store-bought mouth guards for TMJ symptoms. These mouth guards are made of very soft plastic, which doesn’t prevent clenching. Moreover, because mouth guards from the store are often bulky and fit poorly, they may lead to worsening of the symptoms.
Do Botox injections hurt?
Botox injections use a very small needle to inject the medication in multiple places. If you are fearful of needles, please notify our staff and we will provide comfort management services to make your experience less stressful.
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