Edmond, OK TMJ Specialist

When your bite, jaw muscles, and joints do not work harmoniously, it can lead to TMD, a temporomandibular joint disorder. This can be caused by a traumatic jaw injury or occlusal habits, such as grinding or clenching. Though there is no recognized specialty for TMJ and no such thing as a “TMJ specialist,” you will find that some general dentists have more experience with TMD treatment than others. Dr. Jerome Cha has been actively treating TMJ disorders for over 30 years using a variety of treatment methods.

TMJ treatments are integral to restorative dental care. Restoring comfort to the TMJ can also renew the full function and health of the teeth and surrounding structures.

Common Causes and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders occur due to stress and pressure on the temporomandibular joints. These joints lie on either side of the face and connect the jaw bone to the skull. The temporomandibular joints act as sliding hinges that aid in biting and chewing function. An injury, pressure, or stress to these joints leads to TMJ disorders.

Some of the most common signs of TMJ disorders can include:

• Regular headaches or migraines
• Worn, chipped, or cracked teeth
• Teeth clenching and grinding
• Unexplained loose teeth
• Clicking or grinding sound in your jaw joints
• Pain or pressure in your joints
• Limited movement of your jaw
• Ringing in your ears

If you begin to notice any of these symptoms, we can help. Dr. Cha will first examine your smile and jaw to determine if you have a TMJ disorder.

TMJ Treatments We Provide

If you have a jaw joint disorder, we want to relieve your pain first and foremost and through the least invasive treatment possible. Sometimes it is necessary to use a combination of treatment methods. Across all forms of treatment, we have seen a significant success rate with our patients. Over 90% of TMJ disorder patients have reported relief from the pain they’ve been experiencing with professional treatment.

Your treatment may include any of the following:

Oral Appliance

Sometimes, wearing a simple oral mandibular device can address TMD. We provide custom-made nightguards to protect teeth and stop tooth wear. In our office, we will take dental impressions of your teeth to ensure the oral appliance fits comfortably.

A TMJ mouthguard gently moves your bite into a proper, healthy position. It also allows your joint to move correctly. An oral appliance, especially worn during sleep, prevents tooth pain and wear from continual teeth clenching and grinding.

Botox

Another option is using botulinum injections or Botox to relax the hyperactive muscles of mastication. Botox is a neurotoxin that temporarily freezes the facial muscles. Injecting Botox into facial muscles can reduce chronic headaches, jaw pain, and facial pain.

Full-Mouth Reconstruction

In some cases, the best way to treat TMJ disorder is through full-mouth reconstruction. This treatment method involves the use of crowns, veneers, dental implants, or implant-supported dentures to align and shape your teeth so the jaw can function properly. For more information, visit our Full-Mouth Reconstruction page.

Relieving TMJ Pain at Home

In addition to in-office care, we recommend the following at-home treatments to help relieve TMJ pain:

• Jaw Exercises: One of the best ways to reduce headaches and jaw pain is through jaw exercises. When you notice yourself clenching your jaw, you can learn the best techniques to relax your jaw. One method is to place the tip of the tongue on the roof of the mouth behind the front teeth. Then, slowly open and close your mouth. You can also learn additional jaw exercises at physical therapy.
• Ice Packs and Heating Pads: We recommend icing your joints and muscles if you have new TMJ pain. Ice can effectively reduce inflammation. If you have experienced chronic TMJ issues, use a heating pad on the outside of the jaw. Heat helps improve blood circulation and soothe the joints.
• Soft Food Diet: We may recommend a soft diet at the beginning of your TMJ treatment. Sticking to a soft diet for several weeks relieves jaw pressure and tension. Avoid chips, pizza crusts, nuts, and other hard and crunchy foods as you receive treatment.

Most of the time, at-home care is not enough to fully address TMJ disorders. Contact a professional if you have chronic tooth and jaw pain and experience morning headaches.

Can Medication Treat TMJ Disorders?

Your doctor can prescribe medication to relieve TMJ symptoms like headaches and facial pain. Pain medication, anti-inflammatory medication, and muscle relaxants are common medications recommended for TMJ patients.

Do I Need a Physical Therapist for TMJ Disorder?

Sometimes, we will recommend physical therapy for TMJ patients. Physical therapy is a great addition to oral appliance therapy or Botox treatments.

You will learn exercises and techniques from a physical therapist during physical therapy. Your therapist will help you improve your posture and learn exercises for your upper body and face. They will also apply heat and use massage to treat tense muscles. Physical therapy will help you address joint and muscle pain.

What Causes TMJ Flare-Ups?

Symptoms of TMJ disorders can flare up for several reasons. Eating hard foods, increased stress levels, and even poor posture can trigger TMJ symptoms. Eating hard and crunchy foods requires more pressure from your teeth and jaw to bite and chew. This increased pressure can lead to jaw and tooth pain. Cutting foods into smaller pieces or eating softer foods can help relieve this pain as you receive treatment.

If you have increased daily stressors, it can be harder to treat your TMJ flare-up. However, relaxation techniques, including breathing and jaw exercises, can help relieve stress.

You may also not realize that poor posture can worsen TMJ symptoms. If you notice you have hunched-up shoulders or constantly look down at a screen all day, improving your posture can improve your symptoms. Poor posture can strain your muscles and joints. Moving your shoulders back and getting into the habit of working on an elevated screen can reduce chronic TMJ pain.

Relief is Here

If you suspect you are suffering from TMJ disorder, give our office a call at (405) 906-3366 or fill out our appointment request form. We’ll get you scheduled for your initial dental exam where Dr. Cha will be able to assess your treatment needs. Please also let us know if you have any questions about TMJ treatment or TMJ disorders. We’re here to help you.