What are the benefits of TMJ treatment?

There are several advantages to seeking treatment for TMJ, as it can be extremely beneficial in eliminating pain and discomfort. Additional benefits include: Increasing comfort while sleeping Reducing stress on the jaw and teeth Relieving aches and pains associated with TMJ Improving jaw alignment Preventing tooth or jaw damage

Are there alternative ways to help relieve TMJ pain?

Making certain lifestyle changes can help manage TMJ symptoms and relieve pain associated with TMJ in the short-term. Natural remedies include acupuncture, massage, jaw stretches, and sleep position. However, these are only temporary solutions and should not be confused with a long-term, functional solution. Dr. Dailley can assess your symptoms and help determine the best, most effective treatment for your condition.

What if I don’t seek treatment for TMD?

Unfortunately, the effects of TMJ won’t disappear if you choose to ignore it. Untreated TMD can result in serious consequences that may have otherwise been avoided. You may experience joint damage and inflammation, wearing down on your teeth, ear ringing, and hearing damage or even loss. If you’re experiencing TMJ pain, we recommend seeking treatment as soon as possible to help manage the pain before it results in lasting effects.

TMJ Pain Relief in Berkeley, CA

Say Goodbye to Jaw Pain: A Guide to TMJ/TMD

Woman with jaw pain who could use TMJ therapy at Dailley Dental Care

If you’re experiencing pain, discomfort, or clicking sounds in your jaw, you may be suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). This condition affects millions of people worldwide, and Berkeley, CA is no exception. Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain or just looking to learn more about this common condition, Dr, Name and our team are here to help.

What is TMJ/TMD?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull. It allows you to move your jaw up and down and side to side, enabling you to speak, chew, and yawn. TMJ disorder (TMD) occurs when there’s a problem with this joint and the muscles that control its movement. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, clicking or popping sounds, and limited jaw movement.

What Does the Temporomandibular Joint Do?

The TMJ is responsible for the movement of your jawbone. It works together with the muscles in your jaw, neck, and face to allow you to speak, chew, and yawn. The joint is made up of a disc of cartilage that separates the two bones, along with ligaments and muscles that hold everything in place. When this joint is not functioning properly, it can lead to various problems.

What are the Risk Factors for TMJ/TMD?

There are several risk factors for TMJ/TMD, including:

Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching)
Arthritis in the TMJ
Injury or trauma to the jaw
Poor posture or stress on the neck and jaw muscles
Malocclusion (misaligned teeth)

It’s also more common in women than men and is more likely to affect patients between the ages of 20 and 40.

What are the Health Effects of TMJ/TMD?

TMJ/TMD can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint, face, neck, or shoulders
Clicking or popping sounds when you open or close your mouth
Difficulty or discomfort when opening your mouth wide
Locking of the jaw joint
Headaches or migraines
Earaches or ringing in the ears
Dizziness or vertigo
Pain or discomfort when chewing or speaking

If left untreated, TMJ/TMD can cause chronic pain and discomfort, affecting your quality of life. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Name today to learn how you can find relief from these symptoms.

How is TMJ/TMD Treated?

There are several treatments available for TMJ disorders, depending on the severity of your symptoms. Dr. Dailley can help you determine the best course of action based on your individual needs.

Some common treatments for TMD include:

Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or muscle relaxants can help alleviate pain and discomfort.
Mouthguards or Splints: These devices can help reduce the pressure on your jaw joint, especially if you grind your teeth at night.
Physical Therapy: Exercises can help strengthen the muscles in your jaw and neck, improving your range of motion and reducing pain.
Botox Injections: Injections of botulinum toxin can help relax the muscles in your jaw, reducing pain and muscle tension.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct structural problems with the jaw joint.

It’s essential to work with a qualified healthcare provider like Dr. Dailley to determine the best treatment options for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are TMJ disorders common?

Can stress cause TMJ disorder?

Can TMD go away on its own?

When should I seek treatment for TMJ?

Are TMJ disorders common?

Yes, TMD is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s more common in women than men and is more likely to affect people between the ages of 20 and 40.

Can stress cause TMJ disorder?

Yes, stress can contribute to TMD by causing tension and muscle fatigue in the jaw and neck muscles. It’s important to manage stress levels and practice relaxation techniques to help reduce the risk of developing TMD.

Can TMD go away on its own?

In some cases, TMD may improve on its own without treatment. However, it’s essential to seek medical attention if you’re experiencing persistent pain or discomfort to prevent the condition from getting worse.

When should I seek treatment for TMJ?

We recommend seeking professional treatment when frequent pain and stiffness associated with TMJ begins to affect your everyday life. Dr. Dailley has experience in effectively treating patients with TMJ related problems, including even the most complicated disorders. Don’t wait until your TMJ pain becomes unbearable, Dr. Dailley and his Berkeley team have the necessary tools to help ease your pain.