TMJ Treatment

Here at Dental Solutions of Encinitas, your smile is our passion. But we provide more than just gorgeous grins; we are dedicated to getting you the treatments you need to experience holistic, whole body health. This includes treatments that address TMD issues and relief to the dental discomfort they cause. 

With years of experience paired with the latest and greatest dental technology, our office is committed to creating personalized treatment plans that optimize your oral health. So why wait? Schedule your TMJ consultation today.

emporomandibular joint graphic

What Is TMJ/TMD?

Whether it is helping us chew our favorite foods, share bright smiles, or speaking clearly, our mouths are hard at work. This is especially true for the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) that are responsible for our jaw’s range of motion. If a dental issue disrupts or creates stress on these areas, we refer to it as temporomandibular joint dysfunction or disorder (TMD).

Proper TMJ function is absolutely critical to not only your oral health, but your quality of life. By acting as the hinge that connects our upper and lower jaw, these joints make daily activities like chewing, speaking, swallowing, and even yawning possible.

Causes of TMD

There can be many factors that contribute to TMJ disorders, from overstressed ligaments, improper alignment, to even weakened muscle tissue. However, some risk factors are more common than others. 

You are more likely to develop TMD if you have:

  • Chronic Tooth Grinding (bruxism)
  • A History of Rheumatoid Arthritis or Osteoarthritis
  • Jaw Damage or Dislocation
  • Orthodontic Issues (overbites, underbites, crossbites)
woman with jaw pain

What Are the Symptoms of TMJ Disorders?

Because our jaws play such an important role in our daily lives and overall dental care, TMJ disorders create an unfortunately broad range of symptoms. Some of these negatively impact both your oral health and whole body wellness.

You should contact our office for a consultation if you have any of the following conditions:

  • Stiffness in Your Jaw
  • Your Jaw “Locks” and Doesn’t Move
  • Frequent Migraine Headaches
  • Audible Pops or Clicking Sounds When Your Jaw Moves
  • Facial Pain or Swelling
  • Consistent Aches in Your Neck or Shoulders

TMJ Treatment Options from Dr. Vakilian

The committed professionals here at Dental Solutions of Encinitas believe in making genuine connections with each patient, allowing us to better serve your dental care goals and oral health needs. This approach, combined with our precision imaging technology like our digital X-rays and 3D Cone Beam Scanner, ensures your treatment plan is truly personalized. 

While this means a consultation is order to see which TMJ/TMD treatment is right for you, the following approaches are often incorporated:

Holistic Changes to Your Dental Care

Stress is a major factor in TMD. Clenching your jaw muscles, poor posture, and even sleeping on your stomach can stress and create tension that causes TMD. We can help create a better dental care routine that naturally improves TMJ health and teach you techniques that keep your jaw muscles limber and relaxed.

Bite Guards/Night Guards

If you suffer from bruxism, which causes teeth grinding or jaw tension at night, a simple solution is a custom-made bite guard. This device helps protect your teeth and alleviate TMD symptoms by addressing the issue at its source.

Call Today for Your TMD Solution

Migraines, dental discomfort, and even muscle pain can all stem from oral health issues like TMD. Luckily, treatment that optimizes your dental care and promotes whole body wellness is just a call away thanks to Dental Solutions of Encinitas.

Contact our office and schedule your consultation and learn which TMD solutions are right for you.

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