TMJ Treatment

Nearly 12 million Americans suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain. At Hudgens Dental in Charleston, South Carolina, board-certified cosmetic dentist Roy Hudgens, DMD, provides complete care for TMJ through evidence-based treatments, such as bite correction and oral appliance therapy. Call the office or schedule an appointment online to learn more about TMJ treatment.

What is TMJ treatment?

The temporomandibular joints attach the lower jaw to the skull. You have one on each side of your head located directly in front of your ears. These joints allow you to chew and speak comfortably. Without them, you wouldn’t be able to open and close your mouth.

TMJ is a chronic condition that stresses the temporomandibular joints. Any damage to the joints or the muscles that support them can lead to jaw pain and other uncomfortable symptoms.

How do I know if I need TMJ treatment?

Dr. Hudgens may recommend TMJ treatment if your symptoms start to diminish your quality of life. 

Jaw pain is usually the first sign of TMJ, but other common symptoms include:

• Bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Popping when opening your mouth
• Difficulty opening and closing your mouth
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Sensitive teeth
• Earaches
• Facial pain and sensitivity
• Ringing in your ears
• Lockjaw
• Sore jaw

Pain from TMJ isn’t limited to the jaw. It can spread through the neck and shoulders, causing one-sided tension.

What conditions cause TMJ pain?

Many underlying conditions can increase your risk of TMJ. Dr. Hudgens may encourage you to seek TMJ treatment if you have:

Bruxism

Bruxism causes teeth grinding, which occurs when you gnash your teeth together. Grinding strains the teeth and stresses the muscles that support the temporomandibular joints.

Malocclusions

Malocclusions are bite abnormalities, such as overbites or underbites. When your bite gets out of alignment, it can strain your jaw.

Trauma

Injury to the jaw, head, or neck can damage the temporomandibular joints and change your bite.

What does TMJ treatment include?

Hudgens Dental offers multiple types of TMJ treatment, such as:

Oral appliance therapy

Oral appliance therapy involves creating a custom night guard that molds to the unique shape of your teeth. A custom-made oral appliance can shift your bite into the correct position and provide a barrier for your teeth.

Bite correction

A misaligned bite is a common cause of TMJ. If you have an abnormal bite or crooked teeth, Dr. Hudgens can refer you to an orthodontic specialist for braces or clear aligners.

Call Hudgens Dental or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about TMJ treatment.