Are you looking for relief from the jaw pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorder? At Elite Dental in Chicago, IL, we understand that temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, also known as TMD, can significantly impact your quality of life. If you experience jaw pain, jaw clicking, teeth grinding (bruxism) or other related TMD symptoms, Dr. Lee and her experienced team can provide comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment to help you find relief.
Understanding TMJ Disorders (TMD)
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull, enabling essential functions like chewing, speaking, and yawning. When this joint malfunctions, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Common causes of TMD include:
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Jaw clenching
- Trauma to the jaw or joint
- Misalignment of the jaw
- Stress
What Are the Common Symptoms of TMD?
Symptoms of TMD may vary, but patients most often complain of:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Difficulty chewing
- Headaches or migraines
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Tooth sensitivity
- Limited jaw movement or locking of the jaw
TMJ Treatment at Elite Dental
At Elite Dental, our approach TMD treatments are tailored to each of our patients' specific needs and the severity of their condition. We offer a range of conservative and surgical options for top TMJ treatments in Chicago and beyond, including:
- Medicinal Therapy with Muscle Relaxants and Pain Relievers: Medications can help alleviate muscle tension and pain associated with TMD.
- Custom Oral Appliances (Splints or Night Guards): Custom-fitted TMJ appliances are designed to reposition the jaw and prevent teeth grinding, reducing stress on the TMJ.
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and stretches can improve jaw mobility and reduce pain.
- Jaw Surgery: For more severe cases, minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery may be performed to repair or reposition the jaw joint.
To determine the best treatment for you, we'll first offer you a comprehensive TMJ consultation. During your initial consultation, Dr. Lee and her team will conduct a thorough examination of your jaw, face, and neck, then valuate your jaw movement and range of motion., and discuss your symptoms and medical history. Taking comfortable X-rays or other imaging will help us best assess the condition of your TMJ disorder and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs.
Get the Relief You Need for TMJ Disorder
At Elite Dental, our experienced and compassionate dental professionals are committed to your comfort and complete health. This includes personalized TMD treatment plans and comfortable, custom-fitted oral appliances to preserve your jaw health. If you're experiencing jaw pain or other symptoms of TMJ disorder, contact our office today! Dr. Lee and her team are prepared to help you find lasting relief and an improved quality of life.
