TMJ Treatment Asheville
Alleviating Jaw Pain to Improve Quality of Life
Chronic jaw pain affects millions of individuals throughout the United States. What might start as minor soreness can evolve into what is known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. When inflammation caused by teeth grinding, facial trauma, or even stress occurs, pain is often the leading symptom, which can make opening and closing your mouth increasingly difficult. Allow Dr. White and our team to implement effective TMJ treatment strategies in Asheville to address your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. Call us today to learn more or request an appointment.
Why Choose Dr. John White, DDS for TMJ Treatment?
- Custom-Made Occlusal Splints for Maximum Support
- Dentist with Decades of Proven Experience
- We Welcome Your Dental Insurance
What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder (TMD) is a condition that affects the joints that control movement of your lower jaw, known as the temporomandibular joints. When these joints are damaged or inflamed, they can cause a broad range of symptoms. The cause of TMD varies between individuals, and it may be the result of teeth grinding, stress, an uneven bite, or other issues. In some cases, the cause of TMD remains unknown.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
TMD can cause a broad range of symptoms. Here are some of the most common signs of this condition:
- Tenderness and pain in your jaw joints and surrounding muscles
- Limited jaw movement or the sensation of lockjaw
- Ringing in the ears
- Popping and clicking with jaw movements
- Difficulty chewing
- Pain around the eyes
- Neck, back, and shoulder pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Changes in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together
Types of TMJ Treatment
The best TMJ treatment for you depends on the nature and severity of your condition. Dr. White and our team will thoroughly examine your jaw joints and mouth in order to learn as much as we can about what is causing your symptoms. Then, we can recommend your next steps. In addition to advising you on lifestyle changes that may be helpful, we might encourage you to get an occlusal splint or undergo equilibration.
Occlusal Splint
An occlusal splint is a custom device that resembles a mouthguard. When you wear it at night, it can slightly reposition your jaw and help your facial muscles to relax. It can also place a protective barrier between your teeth, providing relief from the pressures of nocturnal teeth grinding and clenching.
Equilibration/Occlusal Adjustment
Oftentimes, pain throughout the jaw joints can be the result of a misaligned bite. When this is the case, we can alter selected teeth so that your bite comes together more naturally, alleviating pain and making opening and closing your mouth easier because of its improved functionality.