The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is a hinge that connects your jaw and skull. The joint is responsible for opening and closing your mouth, as well as chewing. Common problems with the TMJ include muscle soreness, popping or clicking sounds, difficulty in chewing, and jaw locking. Often, these issues are a result of joint or teeth misalignment or problems with the jaw muscles. All these issues can be resolved with TMJ therapy in Florence, NJ.

What Are the Causes of TMJ Disorders?

TMJ disorders have many causes, including:

• Bruxism
• Injury to the jaw
• Arthritis in the joint
• Damage to the joint due to severe tooth decay

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is one of the most common causes of TMJ disorders. This can occur because of stress, misaligned teeth, or an abnormal bite. By wearing an occlusal guard, patients can prevent their teeth from grinding against each other, which will reduce pain and discomfort in the jaw.

What Are the Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders?

Here are some of the most common options under TMJ therapy in Florence, NJ, such as:

1. Botox

Botox can relieve jaw pain caused by clenching and grinding. It can relax the jaw muscles and prevent teeth from grinding. Botox can also be used to treat migraines, tension headaches, and facial pain and relieve pain associated with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) by being injected into the jaw muscles.

2. Splints

Occlusal splints are often used to prevent teeth grinding and are worn at night. Splints can reduce jaw pain and tension, headaches, and facial pain.

3. Massage Therapy

Massaging the facial muscles helps relieve the tension and stress in them. This is a simple yet effective means to treat TMJ disorders. 

What Are TMJ Appliances?

TMJ appliances, or night guards, work to stabilize the jaw and prevent the upper and lower teeth from grinding together. These appliances are worn while you sleep, which means there’s no interruption to your daily life.

TMJ appliances are custom fit to your mouth, so they feel more comfortable to wear than traditional over-the-counter night guards.

What Can I Expect During a TMJ Diagnosis Exam?

The appointment will begin with a thorough oral exam. Our dentist will inspect the teeth, gums, tongue, jaw joints, and facial muscles for signs of tenderness, misalignment, or pain. If a TMJ disorder is suspected, our dentist can take X-rays of the teeth and jaw. These images help the dentist diagnose the disorder and plan treatment.

Once the exam is complete, the dentist will review the results with the patient and discuss options for TMJ therapy in Florence, NJ. If the patient needs further evaluation, the dentist may refer them to a specialist.

What Are the Tips for Preventing TMJ Disorder?

Maintaining good oral health and taking preventive measures can go a long way in preventing TMJ disorder. Here are some tips to help prevent this condition:

1. Practice good posture: Maintaining proper posture can alleviate strain on your jaw muscles and joints. Avoid slouching or hunching over, especially when sitting at a desk or using electronic devices.

2. Avoid excessive chewing: Limit the amount of gum you chew and try to avoid hard or crunchy foods that require excessive chewing. This will reduce the strain on your jaw joint.

3. Take breaks during repetitive tasks: If your job involves repetitive motions such as typing or talking on the phone, take regular breaks to rest your jaw muscles.

4. Manage stress levels: Stress is often associated with teeth grinding and clenching, which can contribute to TMJ disorder. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as practicing relaxation techniques or engaging in physical activity.

5. Use proper ergonomics: Ensure that your workstations are set up ergonomically, with appropriate seating height and computer screen position, to minimize strain on your neck and jaw muscles.

6. Avoid habits like nail-biting or pencil-chewing: These habits put unnecessary pressure on your jaws and can exacerbate symptoms of TMJ disorder.

7. Wear a mouthguard if necessary: If you participate in contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can provide protection for both your teeth and temporomandibular joint.

By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of developing TMJ disorder while promoting overall oral health and well-being.

To find out more about the dental services we offer at Florence Dental Studio, call (609) 499-3800 or schedule a consultation online. You can also visit us at 539 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002, or 313 Broad St, Florence, NJ, 08518.