TMJ

If jaw pain or stiffness negatively affects your everyday life, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders might be to blame. At Nuve Dental in Dallas, Texas, Eduardo Guzman, DDS, and his expert team evaluate, diagnose, and treat TMJ pain to offer you a better quality of life. Call Nuve Dental at the first sign of jaw pain or book an appointment online today.

TMJ Q&A

What are TMJ disorders?

TMJ (temporomandibular) joints consist of muscles, discs, ligaments, and bones that work together to help your jaw open and close smoothly and painlessly. TMJ disorder occurs when jaw muscles and joints get damaged or don’t work properly, causing pain and stiffness.

What causes TMJ disorders?

While the cause of TMJ isn’t always clear, it likely results from genetic and environmental factors. Examples include arthritis, injuries, jaw dislocation, teeth grinding, stress, and tooth or jaw misalignment.

How does my provider diagnose TMJ disorders?

Dr. Guzman personalizes a TMJ treatment plan that best meets your needs. He might suggest:

Lifestyle changes

Making specific lifestyle changes may reduce TMJ pain. Examples include not biting your fingernails, not chewing on ice or other hard objects, and practicing relaxation techniques.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy can strengthen and stretch your jaw to reduce pain associated with TMJ disorders. Ultrasound, ice, and moist heat can also eliminate unpleasant symptoms.

Nightguards

Wearing a mouthguard at night when you sleep can decrease teeth grinding or jaw clenching that contribute to TMJ pain.

Dental procedures

In some instances, your Nuve Dental provider can correct an uneven bite to diminish the pain associated with TMJ disorders. They might adjust or reshape some of your teeth or recommend you undergo orthodontic treatment.

Don’t live with TMJ pain when you don’t have to. Schedule an appointment with Nuve Dental by phone or book online today for relief.