TMJ Therapy in Fort Smith, AR
The temporomandibular joint, also known as the TMJ, connects the lower jaw to the skull. When the TMJ becomes dysfunctional or suffers damage from trauma, simple activities like chewing or speaking can become difficult. If you notice pain or discomfort in your jaw, our team at Southern Dental offers TMJ therapy to help alleviate TMJ symptoms. Please contact our front office to learn more about our TMJ treatment options!
Contact UsWhat is TMJ disorder?
The TMJ can generally move up and down, side to side, forward, and back smoothly. However, when the joint does not fully function properly, and the muscles or jaw joints are affected, the situation can be categorized as TMJ disorder. TMJ disorder is when the TMJ becomes dysfunctional or suffers damage from trauma. When experiencing TMJ disorder, you’ll likely feel pain or discomfort in the jaw or the surrounding muscles.
How do I know if I need TMJ therapy?
While the only way to know whether or not you need TMJ therapy is by scheduling a visit with our skilled team, there are a few common signs that can indicate TMJ disorder. Unfortunately, symptoms of TMJ typically won’t go away on their own. Common symptoms of TMJ include:
- Jaw discomfort or soreness
- Frequent headaches
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Clicking, popping, or locking of your jaw
- Teeth grinding or clenching
Are mouthguards good for TMJ?
We understand that experiencing TMJ disorder can be uncomfortable and interfere with daily activities. To help alleviate pain and protect teeth, our office may recommend a mouthguard as part of your custom TMJ treatment. Mouthguards are one way to help protect teeth from teeth grinding, clenching, or other wear and tear. A custom mouthguard acts as a barrier between the teeth and allows the jaw to rest naturally. When you visit our office for TMJ therapy, we’ll evaluate all treatment options to alleviate your discomfort effectively.
