TMJ /TMD Treatment
TMJ Therapy with Dental Appliances at Houston's Bailey Dental Group
Jaw pain and discomfort can greatly impact an individual’s oral mobility and function. Bailey Dental Group offers relief from painful temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) and other conditions associated with this malfunction through effective dental appliance therapy, delivered in the comfort of our Houston dental office.
Our customized treatments are designed to meet the specific needs of our patients. Our Houston dentist thoroughly examines the jaw area and bite with the use of detailed imaging and x-rays to determine the best treatment plan for your condition. We talk to our patients about their medical history, their expectations and the source of their pain, allowing our team to accurately and precisely treat your TMJ-related issues.
What is TMD?
TMD, or temporomandibular joint dysfunction, is an uncomfortable and often times painful condition that can impact a person’s overall quality of life. Normal activities can be affected such as the ability to bite and chew properly, which can also lead to digestive problems. TMD can create tension in the head and neck areas, as well as sustained teeth grinding which often takes place while sleeping. Consequently, morning jaw aches and headaches are commonly experienced by people with TMD.
TMD can be related to a “bad bite”, or misaligned teeth. Misalignment can result in significant jaw pain, dizziness and severe headaches. Adjusting the bite with the use of orthodontics, extractions or other minimally-invasive techniques drastically improves the health of our patients.
Identifying Signs and Symptoms of TMD
There are a number of indicators that may signal jaw problems. If you believe you may be experiencing TMJ issues, ask yourself the following:
Do you experience pain when chewing?
Is there pain radiating to your face, jaw, or neck?
Are your jaw muscles stiff?
Do you have difficulty moving your jaw?
Is there a clicking, popping or grating sound when opening or closing your mouth?
Have you noticed a change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together?
Available TMJ Treatments at Bailey Dental Group
Our Houston dentist offers guidance and instruction on relaxation techniques which may alleviate the jaw tension and increase range of motion. Some patients benefit from other therapies, including muscle relaxants, and every effort is made to maximize comfort and relief from TMJ problems.
In addition to muscle relaxation techniques, Dr. Bailey offers night guards to effectively alleviate TMJ-related symptoms. Night guards and mouth guards are non-invasive, manageable plastic oral appliances that fit over the teeth and stabilize the bite. This prevents teeth grinding and jaw clenching by forcing the muscle to relax and release tension in and around the TMJ. Both night guards and mouth guards alter the movement of the jaw without causing the patient further pain or discomfort, and they can provide near-instant relief.
Contact our Houston Dental Office
At Bailey Dental Group, you will find TMD solutions to alleviate your pain and discomfort. Contact us our Houston dental office to schedule an appointment and find out how TMJ relief will improve your everyday life.
For additional useful information on TMJ and other dental discussions, please visit our patient education page!
