Welcome to Alla Agamov, DMD, where we specialize in treating temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. We aim to provide comprehensive care to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve oral health. With our expertise in family and cosmetic dentistry, we offer personalized TMJ treatment in Sharon to address various areas, including joint alignment, bite adjustment, and muscle relaxation.
Understanding TMJ Disorder: A Primer
TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is the hinge joint connecting your jaw to your skull. It allows you to move your jaw up and down and side to side, enabling essential functions like chewing, speaking, and yawning. TMJ disorder is a condition that affects this joint and the muscles surrounding it, causing pain, stiffness, and clicking or popping sounds. The exact cause of TMJ disorder is often unclear, but teeth grinding and jaw clenching can contribute to its development.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint area, face, neck, or shoulders
- Difficulty or discomfort when chewing or speaking
- Limited jaw movement or locking of the jaw in an open or closed position
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together
- Earache, tinnitus, or hearing loss
- Headaches, dizziness, or facial fatigue
- Swelling on the side of the face
For further questions about TMJ symptoms and TMJ treatment in Sharon, please contact our office today.
Possible Causes of TMJ Disorder:
- Teeth grinding or clenching, which puts pressure on the joint
- Arthritis, which can damage the joint cartilage and cause inflammation
- Trauma or injury to the jaw joint, such as a blow to the face or a car accident
- Misalignment of the teeth or jaw
- Poor posture, which can affect the neck and facial muscles
- Stress or anxiety, which can cause tension in the jaw muscles
- Hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy or menopause
- Genetic predisposition, where the shape of the joint or the jaw may be inherited
Relieving TMJ: Effective Treatment Options
TMJ treatment aims to alleviate the pain, discomfort, and dysfunction of TMJ disorder. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating TMJ disorder, and the treatment plan depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms. Common treatment options include lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, mouth guards, and dental procedures, such as orthodontics or full-mouth reconstruction. The goal is to restore normal jaw function, prevent further damage, and improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from TMJ disorder. Experience relief with TMJ treatment in Sharon.
Benefits of TMJ Treatment:
- Reduced pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles
- Improved ability to chew, speak, and swallow
- Enhanced bite alignment and occlusion, which can prevent tooth decay and gum disease
- Reduced wear and tear on the teeth and dental restorations, such as fillings and crowns
- Improved posture and reduced tension in the neck and facial muscles
- Relief from headaches and earaches associated with TMJ disorder
- Improved overall oral health and hygiene, which can boost self-esteem and confidence
Mouth Guards & Oral Appliances
Mouth guards and oral appliances can alleviate pressure on the joint and relax the jaw muscles. They are custom-made and fit over the teeth to provide support, prevent grinding or clenching, and improve bite alignment. These appliances work by redistributing the forces of the bite, thus reducing stress on the jaw joint and muscles. Additionally, they can reposition the jaw and improve airway function in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Mouth guards are a simple and effective TMJ treatment in Sharon.
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment involves using braces, aligners, or other appliances to correct the alignment of teeth and jaws. In the context of TMJ disorder, orthodontic treatment can help to relieve symptoms by realigning the bite, reducing pressure on the jaw joint, and promoting proper jaw function. By correcting misalignments, orthodontic treatment can improve the occlusion and reduce stress on the jaw muscles, thus alleviating pain and discomfort. Orthodontic treatment is a customized approach that requires careful planning and monitoring by an experienced orthodontist.
Full-Mouth Reconstruction
Full-mouth reconstruction is a comprehensive treatment approach that involves rebuilding and restoring all the teeth in the upper and lower jaw. In the context of TMJ disorder, a full-mouth reconstruction can help alleviate pain and discomfort by restoring proper occlusion and bite alignment. By addressing misaligned or damaged teeth, full-mouth reconstruction can reduce the stress on the jaw joint and muscles, thereby improving TMJ symptoms. This TMJ treatment in Sharon may involve orthodontics, crowns, bridges, dental implants, or a combination of these procedures.
Alleviate Jaw Pain with TMJ Treatment
Dr. Alla Agamov has been providing quality dental care to the Sharon community for over 21 years. Our practice offers various services, including TMJ treatment, to alleviate pain and improve oral health. We understand the impact of TMJ disorder on your daily life and well-being and are committed to providing personalized treatment tailored to your needs. Schedule your consultation, and let us help you regain your smile and enjoy a pain-free life.