Do you often wake up in the morning with a pounding headache, aching neck, or soreness in your back and shoulders? Perhaps your jaw is noticeably tender, or you experience a clicking or popping sound when you open your mouth. Believe it or not, all of these symptoms can be caused by a single disorder of the joints just beneath your temples. These delicate joints are called the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), and they act as a hinge that allows your lower jaw to open, close, and move from side to side. TMJ disorder can cause numerous symptoms, resulting in daily pain for millions. Fortunately, Dr. Ted Dunson and the team at Southridge Dental can help with customized oral appliances designed specifically for TMJ disorder.
How Does TMJ Disorder Treatment Help?
When an injury or misalignment of the jaws causes the temporomandibular joint to become irritated, the result is inflammation of the cartilage and discomfort of varying degrees. The intricate bundle of nerves and blood vessels surrounding this joint can send shooting pain throughout the head, neck, shoulders, jaw, and back. Another primary cause of TMJ disorder is jaw clenching and teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. The most effective way to eliminate the uncomfortable symptoms associated with this condition is to address the problem at its core: correct the imbalance or behavior that is causing the irritation.
With a custom nightguard (also called an oral appliance or splint), Dr. Dunson can keep your jaw in its proper position and prevent jaw clenching. This is particularly important for patients who clench their jaw as they sleep. The splint keeps your jaw from exerting the powerful force it would otherwise, allowing your muscles and joints to fully relax. Other therapies include massage and relaxation techniques. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, you may be affected by TMJ disorder. Our team can help with both diagnosis and treatment so you can move on with your life free of the pain caused by TMD.
Schedule Your TMJ Therapy Consultation Today
Don’t spend another day suffering from the aching discomfort, headaches, or jaw pain associated with TMJ disorder. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Ted Dunson and his experienced, caring staff. We understand how constant pain from TMJ disorder can negatively impact your life, and we want to help you find real relief. Conveniently located in Denton, TX, Southridge Dental proudly serves families from throughout communities in the surrounding DFW areas, including Richardson, Plano, Frisco, Flower Mound, The Colony, North Dallas, and beyond.