TMJ Therapy in Topton Can Relieve Your Jaw Pain
When you place your fingertips just under your ears and open your mouth, you can feel something moving under the skin. These are your temporomandibular joints, which have the essential job of connecting the jaw to the skull and helping you eat, speak, and perform other important functions without worry. Unfortunately, this big responsibility can be thrown off-balance at times by strain or injury, resulting in serious discomfort for the patient. Thankfully, Dr. Edward Carter can help alleviate the symptoms of TMJ disorder (also known as TMD) with focused therapy options here in Topton. To schedule a consultation, contact our office today!
Do I Have TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder is a complex health problem, and no two patients will have exactly the same symptoms. However, there are some tell-tale signs that you should be aware of. If you experience any of the following on a consistent basis, don’t hesitate to contact our practice for assistance:
- Significant, chronic jaw pain
- Pain and discomfort that’s located in the face, neck, shoulders, and back
- Constant headaches and migraines
- The constant sensation of an earache/ringing in the ears
- Jaw joints that regularly click and pop
- An inability to open and close the mouth fully
- Regular difficulty with chewing food
Occlusal Splint Therapy
Once Dr. Carter has thoroughly assessed and diagnosed your condition, a custom-made occlusal splint can provide excellent improvement. These oral appliances are used for several different purposes. For instance, if your TMJ therapy is primarily caused by excessive bruxism (teeth grinding), your occlusal splint may be designed to minimize harmful contact between teeth. They’re also designed to help your resting jaw find a much more comfortable and functional position and maintain it over time. Some patients are even able to permanently reset their jaw with consistent use and regain a higher quality of life as well.