TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder is something many patients don’t recognize that they have. Yet, the symptoms of it, which can include intense discomfort, teeth-grinding, and more, can sometimes be so severe that ignoring them is impossible. At our El Paso, TX, dental office, we can diagnose your TMJ disorder and develop a highly customized treatment plan to address the unique nature of your condition.
Your TMJs are as unique as your teeth
The TMJs that control your jaw movement are as unique in their size, shape, and motor ability as your teeth are. That’s because they’re made to power your bite, specifically, and work according to the size and shape of your jaw, as well as the alignment of your teeth and much more. Both joints have to work together for your jaw to move comfortably. Therefore, any discrepancy in their form can lead to intense discomfort and jaw dysfunction.
Your TMJ problems are, too
Because your TMJs are unique, the problems that could potentially affect them are, as well. TMJ disorder is a collective term that can describe a variety of dysfunctions, such as damage, inflammation, misalignment, dislocation, or other concerns with one or both joints. Your TMJ disorder, as well as the related symptoms, depend on the specific nature of your jaw troubles. For many patients, those symptoms can include chronic headaches, sore and painful jaw muscles, trouble biting and chewing, and much more.
Your TMJ treatment should be personalized
To alleviate your TMJ pain and restore your bite’s proper function, the goal of TMJ treatment is to address your specific disorder. For instance, if your jaw joints are misaligned because the rest of your bite is, as well, then orthodontic treatment might be necessary to correct it. If you grind your teeth constantly, exacerbating your condition, then you might also require a customized guard to protect your teeth from the grinding.
Treat your specific TMJ disorder
Because TMJ disorder is unique to everyone, finding the best solution for your condition requires a highly personalized treatment plan. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling the Sunny Smiles dental office nearest you in El Paso, TX, today! We have offices in the East, Northeast, and Westside of El Paso, and happily welcome patients from all nearby communities, including Chaparral, Canutillo, Vinton, and Sunland Park, New Mexico.