Relieve Jaw Discomfort with
TMJ Treatment in Polaris, OH
Understanding TMJ
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty in moving the jaw. At Stephanie Briggs, DDS, we understand how TMJ symptoms can impact your daily life, from chewing and speaking to headaches and jaw tension. Our team provides personalized TMJ treatment options designed to alleviate pain and improve jaw function. Through gentle, non-invasive therapies, we can help reduce tension in the jaw muscles and restore comfort. Whether you’re experiencing mild discomfort or chronic pain, we’ll work with you to create a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and restores your quality of life.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders can present with a variety of symptoms, which may differ in severity from person to person. These issues can significantly impact daily activities like chewing, speaking, or even opening and closing your mouth comfortably. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of TMJ issues include:
- Jaw Pain
- Limited Jaw Movement
- Clicking or Popping Sounds
- Muscle Spasms
- Locking of the Jaw
- Headaches and Ear Pain
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek a professional evaluation to determine whether TMJ is the cause and to explore the appropriate treatment options.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
TMJ can stem from genetics if it is in your family health history. It can also be a result of trauma to the face or jaw. Hormones affect the jawbone and lead to TMJ symptoms. Bruxism, or grinding the teeth, can strain the jaw joint and lead to TMJ signs. Arthritis is an inflammatory condition that affects the bones. Stress also contributes to TMJ, resulting in unconscious tightening of the jaw. Dr. Briggs will conduct a thorough examination to evaluate your symptoms, review your medical history, and determine the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder.
Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders
At Stephanie Briggs, DDS, we take a comprehensive approach to TMJ treatment, focusing on addressing the root cause of the disorder and providing relief from symptoms. Some of the most common and effective treatments for TMJ include:
Night Guards and Bite Guards
For patients who experience nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism) or clenching, we offer night guards or occlusal guards to protect the teeth and reduce stress on the jaw joint. These custom-made appliances fit comfortably over your teeth and are worn while you sleep, preventing excessive pressure on the TMJ and reducing the risk of further damage.
- Night Guards:
These appliances are designed to prevent grinding or clenching during sleep, a common cause of TMJ pain. By providing a cushion between your teeth, night guards help relieve pressure on the jaw joint and minimize damage to the teeth. - Bite Guards:
For patients whose TMJ issues are related to improper bite alignment, bite guards may be recommended to adjust the way your teeth fit together, helping to alleviate discomfort and improve jaw function.
- Night Guards:
Bite Adjustments
In some cases, the way your teeth come together (your bite) may contribute to TMJ issues. Dr. Briggs may recommend a bite adjustment to help improve the alignment of your teeth and reduce the strain on your jaw joint. This can involve minor reshaping of certain teeth to create a more balanced and comfortable bite.
Contact Us
Schedule Your TMJ Evaluation
Living with TMJ pain can be challenging, but with the proper diagnosis and treatment plan, relief is possible. Dr. Stephanie Briggs and our team are committed to helping you find long-term solutions to your TMJ discomfort.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward managing your TMJ in Polaris, OH.