TMJ Therapy in Savannah, Hilton Head, Bluffton

Name: Old Moreland Dental
Rating: 4.8

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge joint that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. It allows the mandible to move up and down and side to side, so that we can talk, chew, and yawn. Problems with the TMJ can cause pain in the jaw and face and can make it hard to open and close your mouth.

woman looking down with her head leaning over her shoulder

TMJ therapy, What Is It?

If you experience jaw pain, neck pain, and headaches, it could be due to problems with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This tiny joint is responsible for the opening and closing of the mouth, and when it isn't functioning properly, it can cause a variety of problems. If you think you may have TMJ disorder, it's important to see a doctor or dentist so they can properly diagnose and treat the problem. In some cases, simple lifestyle changes like avoiding hard foods or learning to relax your jaw can help alleviate symptoms. When that is not enough, non-surgical treatments can help to relieve symptoms. In the most severe of TMJ cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.

Why Choose Old Moreland Dental For TMJ And TMD?

At Old Moreland Dental we have a team of experienced dentists who are experts in the field of TMJ disorders. We believe in providing quality dental care and outstanding customer service every single day. Our core values include a dedication to exceeding our patient’s expectations and a commitment to providing the best possible care. We understand that many people have had negative experiences with dentists in the past, and we strive to make every visit to our office a smooth and comfortable one. You can be confident that you are in good hands when you trust us with your dental care needs.

What Causes TMJ?

There are many different causes of TMJ disorders, and sometimes the exact cause is unknown. Some possible causes include:

Arthritis in the TMJ
Injury to the TMJ
Clenching or grinding your teeth (bruxism)
Stress

What Are The Symptoms Of TMJ?

Symptoms of TMJ disorders can include:

Pain in the jaw, face, neck, or shoulders
Headaches
Ear pain
Difficulty chewing or pain when chewing
Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when you move your jaw
Locked jaw (unable to open or close your mouth

What Are The Different Ways TMJ Can Be Treated?

There are two main types of treatment for TMJ: dental splints and bite guards. Research has shown that these can be effective in reducing pain and preventing long-term side effects.

Dental splints are devices that are worn over the teeth to stabilize the jaw and protect it from further damage. There are two main types of dental splint: a TMJ mouthguard, and a bruxism (tooth grinding) mouthguard.
Bite guards are also worn over the teeth, but they work by creating a barrier between the teeth and the jaw. This can help to reduce the amount of pressure on the jaw and prevent further damage.

Both dental splints and bite guards should be worn for at least six weeks and can be worn for longer if necessary.

Injections for TMJ

There are a few different types of injections that can be used to treat TMJ, depending on the specific condition.

Local anesthetics

There is some evidence that local anesthetic injections can be effective in treating TMJ disorders. A small study published in 2009 found that injections of lidocaine (a common local anesthetic) were associated with significant reductions in pain and improvements in jaw function in patients with TMJ disorders.

Corticosteroids

other types of injections, such as corticosteroids, can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the treated area. Corticosteroids are a type of anti-inflammatory medication that can be injected directly into the site of an injury or inflammation. They work by reducing the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body, which helps to reduce swelling and pain.

Botox injections

Can help to relax the muscles around the jaw and relieve pain. Botox has been found to be an effective treatment for TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder. Botox can improve pain and stiffness in the jaw, as well as clicking or popping sounds when the mouth is opened or closed. Botox works by relaxing the muscles in the jaw, which alleviates pain and increases the range of motion. In addition, Botox can help to reduce teeth grinding and clenching, which can further relieve symptoms of TMJ.