The temporomandibular joints, called the TMJ for short, are considered the most complex system of joints in the body, acting as a hinge between your upper and lower jaws. If you experience pain or difficulty moving your jaw, visit us at the office of Capitol Smiles to find out if you’re a candidate for treatment with a customized night guard. We provide personalized, leading-edge care to alleviate a wide range of issues affecting oral health and function, including TMJ disorders.
To locate the temporomandibular joints, move your fingers directly below your ears, on either side of your face. Every time you swallow, speak, chew or yawn, these joints are hard at work. If you notice a clicking or popping sound when you move your jaw, if your jaw locks or has a limited range of motion or if you have facial pain around your ears and mouth, be sure to discuss these symptoms with our dentist. We’ll also ask questions regarding your dental and medical history and perform a comprehensive examination to accurately diagnose TMJ disorders . TMJ disorder can be attributed to a number of causes including arthritis, injuries, misaligned teeth and bruxism. Bruxism refers to a nightly teeth grinding habit, which places excess strain on the TMJ, causing or exacerbating a TMJ disorder. A customized night guard fits like a retainer and keeps your teeth slightly separated while you sleep, alleviating pressure on the TMJ. Our team will teach you how to properly utilize and care for your night guard, and will be happy to answer any questions regarding treatment.
At the office of Capitol Smiles we offer much-needed relief from TMJ disorders with portable, easy-to-use night guards. Our highly trained dentist and staff will keep you informed and at ease throughout your course of care. To learn more about TMJ disorder or to schedule an appointment, call today.
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