TMJ Therapy in Cherry Hill, NJ

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.

What Are the Causes of TMJ Disorders?

Temporomandibular joint disorders, commonly referred to as TMJ disorders, encompass a range of conditions affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. This condition encompasses various issues such as temporomandibular joint pain, muscle spasms, clicking or popping sounds during jaw movement, difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully, and even headaches or earaches. These disorders can arise due to several factors. Understanding these multifaceted conditions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. Some of the most common causes of TMJ disorders are as follows:

• Bruxism: One of the primary causes of TMJ disorders is bruxism, a condition characterized by teeth grinding or clenching. This repetitive motion puts excessive pressure on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, leading to discomfort and inflammation. People suffering from chronic stress or anxiety often experience bruxism during sleep without even realizing it, exacerbating their TMJ symptoms.
• Injury to the jaw: Trauma or injury to the jaw can also result in TMJ disorders. Accidents involving direct impact to the jawbone, such as car crashes or sports injuries, may cause damage to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) itself or its supporting structures. Inflammation and misalignment caused by these incidents can generate persistent pain and restricted mouth movement.
• Arthritis in the joint: Arthritis refers to various conditions causing joint inflammation, stiffness, and deterioration. When arthritis affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), it disrupts its normal functioning and contributes to TMJ disorders. Osteoarthritis primarily affects cartilage degradation within joints, while rheumatoid arthritis involves an autoimmune response that targets healthy tissues, including those around the TMJ.
• Damage due to severe tooth decay: One of the prominent causes of TMJ disorders is damage to the joint due to severe tooth decay. The complex relationship between dental health and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function cannot be overlooked, as both are closely intertwined. When tooth decay reaches an advanced stage, it can gradually erode the structure supporting the teeth, including the jawbone. As a result, this weakening puts excessive strain on the TMJ, leading to inflammation and dysfunction over time.

TMJ Therapy in Cherry Hill, NJ for TMJ Disorders?

If you are seeking effective TMJ therapy in Cherry Hill, NJ, for TMJ disorders, look no further. Our clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive and specialized care for individuals experiencing the discomfort and limitations associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues. Led by a team of highly skilled professionals, we offer advanced techniques and cutting-edge therapies tailored to address your specific needs. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the complex nature of TMJ disorders, our experts will conduct a thorough evaluation to accurately diagnose your condition before customizing an individualized treatment plan that suits you best. From non-invasive approaches such as physical therapy exercises, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle modifications to more advanced interventions like oral splints or orthodontic treatments if necessary, our goal is to alleviate pain while restoring proper function to your jaw joints smoothly and efficiently. Trust us with your TMJ concerns; we are committed to helping you regain control over your life through personalized care that prioritizes both comfort and long-term results.

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 treatment. If the patient needs further evaluation, the dentist may refer them to a specialist.

To find out more about the dental services we offer at South Jersey Dental Studio, call (856) 406-6570 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.