What TMJ Treatment Is Most Common and Why

Did you know that it takes 360 different joints to make the human body function properly? With so many, it's understandable if you don't appreciate the importance of your jaw joint. Without it, you'd be unable to speak, eat, or swallow properly.

So when this joint, known technically as your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), has some type of dysfunction (TMD), it can have a disproportionate impact on your life. That's why the Dr. Fairfax and Associates Family Dentistry team has adopted numerous ways to treat this condition. Still, the most common and effective option is a nightguard to realign your jaw and protect your teeth.

Does Your TMJ Cause You Issues?

Problems in your jaw joint often present when you wake up each morning, with facial and jaw soreness. Along with this soreness, other symptoms of TMD are:

• Headaches, including migraines
• Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
• Broken and worn teeth
• Trouble opening and closing the jaw
• Ringing in the ears or tinnitus

These symptoms, especially when experienced together, can diminish your quality of life, so we encourage timely TMJ treatment in Fairfax, VA.

Nightguards Offer You Numerous TMJ Benefits

One of the most direct approaches to relieving TMD is a custom-made plastic tray called a nightguard because you wear it while sleeping. This helps you in two ways. First, our dental professionals design your nightguard to maneuver your jaw into better alignment. By doing this, your TMJ will be under less stress, allowing the irritation and inflammation to recede.

Second, the high-density polymer also protects your teeth if you tend to grind them while you sleep. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is frequently associated with TMJ disorders. In addition, if your jaw is misaligned, you may unconsciously try to manipulate your jaw position, and as an unintended consequence, you also end up grinding your teeth. A nightguard can break this cycle.

Your Fairfax dentist takes accurate teeth impressions to ensure your nightguard is comfortable and fits snugly. You wear the night guard while you sleep, and over time you'll experience fewer symptoms with diminishing intensity.

TMJ Treatment in Fairfax, VA

If you have jaw pain and stiffness that causes you pain and suffering, then our dental team would love to help. We encourage you to schedule an appointment today to learn more about how a nightguard or other TMD treatments may lessen your pain.