Personalized TMJ Treatment to Relieve Your Discomfort

If you’re experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing, you may be dealing with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. At OHIOSmiles, Dr. Antalis provides expert care for TMJ issues, helping patients in Cambridge, OH, and the surrounding communities find relief and regain comfort. Our team offers personalized TMJ treatment plans to address your symptoms and restore your quality of life.

Understanding TMJ Disorders

The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) act as hinges connecting your lower jaw to your skull, enabling essential movements like talking and chewing. Temporomandibular joint dysfunction, or TMD, refers to a cluster of conditions affecting these joints, the surrounding muscles, and the intricate system of ligaments.

While the exact cause of temporomandibular disorders can be challenging to pinpoint, contributing factors include:

• Teeth grinding (bruxism) or clenching.
• Misaligned bite.
• Arthritis in the jaw joint.
• Jaw injury or trauma.
• Stress that causes muscle tension in the jaw.

Dr. Antalis will take a closer look at your symptoms and determine the root cause of your TMJ disorder, ensuring a practical and customized treatment approach.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

Recognizing the symptoms of TMD is the first step toward seeking appropriate care. While jaw pain is a hallmark symptom, TMD can manifest in various ways, making diagnosis complex.

Common indicators include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness.
• Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth.
• Headaches or migraines.
• Difficulty chewing or biting.
• Chronic facial pain or swelling.
• Lockjaw or limited jaw movement.

You may sometimes experience headaches, earaches, or even dizziness as part of your TMD.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosing TMD involves a thorough physical examination, a review of your medical history, and potentially imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs. This comprehensive approach helps our dentist determine your condition’s underlying cause and severity.

At OHIOSmiles, we offer a variety of treatments designed to alleviate TMJ pain and improve jaw function. Treatment we may recommend include:

• Lifestyle Modifications: Stress reduction techniques, dietary adjustments, and physical therapy can relieve TMJ symptoms.
• Medication: Anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Dental Adjustments: Correcting a bad bite through restorative dentistry or orthodontics can address the underlying causes of TMJ disorders.
• Nightguards: Custom-made appliances help reduce teeth grinding and alleviate stress on the jaw joint.

Treatment for TMD is highly individualized, focusing on addressing your specific symptoms and needs.

Nightguards: Protecting Your Jaw and Teeth

For many patients with TMJ disorder, nightguards are a highly effective treatment option. These custom-fitted appliances, also known as mouth guards, are worn at night to:

• Prevent teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching.
• Reduce pressure on the temporomandibular joint.
• Protect teeth from wear and damage.
• Promote jaw muscle relaxation during sleep.

At OHIOSmiles, Dr. Antalis designs intraoral appliances tailored to your mouth for maximum comfort and effectiveness. They are durable, easy to wear, and can make a significant difference in managing TMJ symptoms.

Find Pain Relief from TMJ Discomfort at OHIOSmiles

Personalized TMJ treatment offers relief from discomfort by addressing symptoms. Don’t let TMJ disorder disrupt your daily life. At OHIOSmiles, Dr. Antalis helps you find relief and restore your jaw’s function. 

Contact our Cambridge, Ohio office at (740) 439-2501 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free smile. Serving patients throughout the southeastern Ohio region, we’re committed to your comfort and health.