The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull. Most people pay little attention to these joints until something goes wrong, causing pain in the joint or the associated muscles. Over time, injury or pressure on the TMJ can create temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). Many patients may not even realize they have TMD because they exhibit symptoms unconsciously or during sleep. Patients with TMD can clench or grind their teeth, have difficulty chewing hard foods, or experience tooth and jaw pain. At Monokian Dentistry, we help patients diagnose their symptoms of TMD and provide TMJ treatment in Haddonfield and Marlton, NJ. Our team offers comprehensive TMJ exams to pinpoint areas of wear and discomfort to provide restorative care for the smile and entire facial structure.
What Are the Signs of TMD?
There are many common signs of TMJ disorders:
- Teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism)
- Pain when eating hard foods
- Jaw pain and discomfort
- Chronic migraines
Please contact our office if you notice any of these symptoms. We can create a treatment plan to alleviate pain and prevent further damage to the teeth or joints.
Diagnosing TMJ Disorders
We provide comprehensive examinations to identify and treat potentially painful TMJ disorders even before any discomfort develops. These exams include:
- A detailed review of your dental and health history
- A thorough examination of the joints
- Range of motion testing
- Doppler-driven audio analysis
- Bite analysis and alignment
- Examining evidence of teeth grinding and other behaviors that cause TMJ disorders
Treating TMJ Disorders
Our dental offices can create custom nightguards for patients who experience teeth clenching and grinding, morning headaches, and jaw pain due to TMD. First, we take digital x-rays to view the mouth structure and the jaw. Then we take digital impressions of the smile to send to a local dental lab, where technicians create a nylon nightguard. Once the nightguard is complete, we can make adjustments as needed to ensure the teeth make balanced contact with the nightguard. Nightguards can cover the upper or lower tooth arch.
We may also recommend physical therapy in conjunction with nightguards. During physical therapy, patients may learn exercises to work the muscles in their jaw, back, shoulders, and even arms. Releasing tension in the upper body can alleviate TMD pain and make everyday life more comfortable for patients.
Botox for TMJ & Bruxism
Dr. David Monokian has advanced training in the therapeutic use of Botox for TMJ discomfort. Botox injections can be strategically placed in the jaw joint to enable the muscles to relax. This will reduce tension and allow the joint to move more freely.
How long does Botox last when used to treat TMJ?
Most patients will enjoy relief from ongoing pain and immobility in the jaw joints for 3-6 months, depending on the severity of symptoms and possible damage to the joints.
Is Botox for TMJ covered by my dental insurance?
While we always recommend checking with your insurance company to confirm your benefits, most do not cover this type of treatment.
Address TMJ Pain Today
Do you have frequent jaw pain? Do headaches and tooth pain punctuate your mornings? Schedule an examination at Monokian Dentistry today. Call our Haddonfield office at 856.429.0404 or our Marlton office at 856.983.9620