Does your jaw pop or click when you chew hard foods? You may have a TMJ disorder. Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) are bite disorders that often occur when the joints that connect the skull to the jaw bone are injured or under stress. An imbalanced bite, missing teeth, and stress can contribute to TMJ disorders. The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) act as a sliding hinge and aid in biting and chewing.
Patients who experience TMJ disorders can experience difficulty biting and chewing, jaw pain, and headaches. Dr. Rosado can treat TMJ in our Port Charlotte, FL, office to help resolve bite problems and reduce discomfort. We want to help patients restore their smiles and ensure their teeth and gums are comfortable and functional. We also provide restorative dental treatments to patients in Port Charlotte.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
TMD can emerge through these symptoms:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism)
- Headaches and migraines
- Jaw popping or clicking (crepitus)
- Sore jaw or neck muscles
- Ear pain (earache)
- Pain or swelling in the temples
If you notice any of these symptoms, please get in touch with our office. We will conduct a visual exam and take dental X-rays of your teeth and jaw. Our office will also measure the force of your bite if you receive a nightguard.
TMJ Treatment Options in Port Charlotte, FL
Most TMD patients benefit from physical therapy. During physical therapy, patients learn exercises to relax the muscles in their neck, arms, shoulders, and back. Additionally, patients will learn how to place their tongue at rest to prevent constant movement and strain on the muscles in the mouth and jaw. Patients may be advised to stick to a soft diet during physical therapy to give their jaw joints a break.
Oral appliance therapy is a great option for patients who experience bruxism or teeth clenching and grinding. We use digital impressions to create custom acrylic nightguards. Nightguards are worn during sleep to cover and protect teeth, preventing damage from bruxism. These nightguards also bring the jaw forward to relieve stress from the jaw. The hard acrylic material also discourages patients from grinding their teeth.
Request a Dental Appointment
Do you think you may have a TMJ disorder? Schedule your next dental visit with Dr. Rosado online. You may also contact Sun Smile Dentistry for TMJ treatment at 941-271-0721. Please let us know if you have questions about TMJ treatment; we’re here to help.