Say Goodbye to TMJ Pain and Hello to a Brighter Smile

If you’re experiencing stiffness, discomfort, or pain in your jaw, you might be dealing with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, also known as TMD. At Just Smile Dental in Everett, WA, Dr. William Webley provide a thorough exam to determine the root cause of your symptoms. 

From there, he’ll offer appropriate treatment options to restore function and make your life more comfortable. We also offer advice on how to prevent TMJ and jaw pain from occurring in the future.

What Is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint is the hinge connecting your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. It’s responsible for the movement of your jaw, enabling you to speak, eat, and yawn. TMJ disorder occurs when this joint becomes inflamed or damaged, causing pain, discomfort, and limited movement in the jaw.

Signs and Symptoms of TMJ

The symptoms of TMJ disorder vary from person to person, but some of the most common signs include:

  • Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint
  • Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth
  • Clicking or popping sounds when you open and close your mouth
  • Aching pain in and around your ear
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Neck and shoulder pain

Causes of TMJ Disorder

The exact cause of TMJ disorder is not always clear. However, several factors can contribute to the development of this condition, including:

  • Grinding or clenching your teeth
  • Arthritis
  • Injury to the jaw
  • Misaligned bite
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Wisdom teeth coming out

Sometimes, the cause of a joint problem is challenging to figure out, or numerous causes are working together to contribute to the pain. At Just Smile Dental, Dr. Webley will perform a thorough assessment that includes cutting-edge imaging technologies. Through these diagnostic methods, we can minimize misdiagnosis and find the main concern. 

With numerous treatments available, we’re able to pinpoint a solution to your problem and ease your pain. If there’s a secondary cause of the jaw pain, we’ll address that as well.

TMJ and TMD Treatment

Dr. Webley provides numerous solutions for jaw problems and pain. We start with simpler solutions before progressing to more intensive treatments to help manage the symptoms of TMJ disorder, including:

  • Lifestyle changes: Avoiding hard, chewy, or sticky foods, reducing stress, and practicing relaxation techniques.
  • Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen and stretch the jaw muscles.
  • Medications: Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • TMJ Splint: A custom-made dental appliance used to treat TMD by helping to stabilize the jaw and prevent teeth grinding or clenching.
  • Jaw Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace the damaged joint.

If the pain is caused by a separate concern from the TMJ, such as tooth decay or wisdom teeth, we’ll address these problems with our restorative treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can TMJ go away on its own?

In some cases, mild cases of TMJ disorder may go away on their own with self-care and lifestyle changes. However, more severe cases may require professional treatment to alleviate the symptoms.

How long does it take to see improvement with TMJ treatment?

The length of time it takes to see improvement with TMJ treatment can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment being used. In some cases, patients may notice an improvement in their symptoms within a few days of starting treatment, while others may take several weeks or months to see significant improvement.

Are there any side effects associated with TMJ treatment?

As with any medical treatment, there are potential side effects associated with TMJ treatment. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or soreness in the jaw, while others may experience headaches or dizziness. 

These side effects are typically temporary and should resolve on their own within a few days. However, if you experience severe or prolonged side effects, it’s important to contact your dentist.

Is TMJ treatment covered by insurance?

In many cases, TMJ treatment is covered by insurance. However, it’s best to check with your insurance provider to determine what treatments are covered and what costs may be associated with them. You can also ask the dental practice if they provide financing options.

Ready to Find Relief from TMJ? Contact Us to Get Started!

If you’re experiencing any of the TMJ disorder symptoms, don’t suffer in silence. Contact our office today at (425) 341-1111 to schedule a consultation for a thorough exam and explore your treatment options. 

You can also book your appointment below. We’re proud to provide orthodontic treatments for our patients in Edmonds, Marysville, Lynnwood, and Silver Firs, WA. With our help, you can manage your TMJ symptoms and enjoy a pain-free life.