If you experience constant pain in your mouth along with ears, jaw joints or hear a popping or clicking sound in these areas, it may be because of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). TMD may also be characterized by frequent headaches.
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your jaw to the skull under your ears, on each side of the face. They are known to be one of the complex joints present in your body. When the TMJ experiences trauma or is overused, it gets inflamed, which may cause pain and swelling. Such pain may spread to your jaw area, thus affecting your everyday life. Fortunately, you can treat this condition using various TMJ appliances and relieve all the painful symptoms.
You may experience problems with your temporomandibular joint, such as the displacement of the articular disc of your jaw. This creates popping and clicking sounds.
TMJ appliances are one of the leading ways to address your condition and its symptoms. When you visit our clinic for treatment, we will carry out a proper diagnosis and plan the best treatment using TMJ appliances. It is essential to provide the right appliance to wear; otherwise, it may lead to tooth sensitivity, muscle strain, and other problems.
Splints are the most sought-after and effective appliance in treating your condition. They are research-based appliances that help you achieve long-term results. Also known as bite guards or bite plates, we fit them in your mouth to rest comfortably.
Splints come in various shapes and sizes and are made of hard acrylic material. They work by preventing contact between your teeth, thus reducing jaw pressure and breaking the cycle of pain. You can wear them 24 hours a day during your initial treatment period.
Nightguards are another treatment device you may wear to treat the temporomandibular joint disorder. They are made of hard acrylic and should be worn only at night. Nightguards are primarily designed to treat bruxism or teeth grinding. We can customize them according to the shape and size of your jaw so that they offer a comfortable fit.
To find out more about the dental services offered at Gorham & Ammarell Dentistry, call (615) 327-4914 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 124 30th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37203.
