Have you been experiencing headaches, neck or back aches, pain in your jaw, or mobility problems when speaking or eating? You could be suffering from temporomandibular joint or TMJ disorder. The TMJ is the temporomandibular joint or the joint that connects the lower jaw to the rest of the head. The term “TMJ” is often used to refer to TMJ disorder, also called TMD, which occurs when the jaw joint becomes stressed, injured, or misaligned.
TMJ disorder may result from several different factors, such as stress, bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching), arthritis in the TMJ, or trauma and injury to the head, neck, or jaw. At Upper Bucks Dental Arts, we offer TMJ treatment in Quakertown, PA, to help patients restore balance and comfort to their smiles.
Common Signs of TMJ Disorders
You may suffer from TMD if you experience frequent jaw pain or facial pain. TMJ disorders may also cause:
- Grinding, clicking, or popping sounds in the jaw when you open and close your mouth
- Inability to open your mouth wide to speak, yawn, or chew
- A locked or stuck jaw
- Pain when chewing and biting
- Frequent headaches
- Pain in the neck, shoulders, or ears
TMJ can also be a co-existing symptom of sleep apnea. Many patients with a sleep disorder also have a bite problem, often related to their underlying airway issues. Dr. Halle-brown has advanced training in both occlusion and dental sleep medicine. She can offer a comprehensive approach to your oral health and wellness concerns. If you notice any of these symptoms or have concerns about your oral health, call Dr. Halle-Brown today. She will examine all aspects of your oral health to find the best option for your needs.
TMJ Treatment in Quakertown, PA
Dr. Halle-Brown will help you determine the cause of your TMJ disorder and recommend the appropriate treatment. Treatment for TMJ will depend on the cause and severity of your TMJ disorder.
Dr. Halle-Brown is a Dawson-trained dentist who takes a comprehensive approach to care. Through the Dawson Academy, Dr. Halle-Brown learned how to thoroughly examine the smile, taking the teeth, bite, and airway into account when diagnosing and treating patients. During regular appointments, Dr. Halle-Brown analyzes occlusion, bite function, and areas of tooth wear. If she finds abnormalities, she may recommend treatment for TMD.
TMD treatment may include jaw and facial relaxation exercises, lifestyle changes, restorative dental treatments, a nightguard, or jaw surgery. Nightguards are one of the best options for patients who experience teeth clenching and grinding. Dr. Halle-Brown takes dental impressions to create custom-made acrylic nightguards. The nightguard covers the upper or lower teeth and protects teeth from wear. Wearing a nightguard also releases pressure on the jaw and TMJ.
Treat Your TMJ Disorder Today
Are you noticing signs of TMD? Call our office for TMJ treatment today at (215) 876-0543. You can also schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Halle-Brown on our website.