Using A Custom Appliance To Alleviate TMJ Aches And Pains

man with jaw painIf you are trying to ignore TMJ problems, you can grow frustrated as biting, chewing, speaking, and even laughing lead to discomfort. Problems that affect your jaw joints and muscles make it difficult for you to do anything that requires jaw movement, as pain and stiffness put new limitations on you. If your problem has triggered a reflex to grind or clench your teeth at night, you can become vulnerable to dental damage! At our Sheridan, WY dentist’s office, we can work with you to restore your quality of life by alleviating pain and tension from teeth grinding. A special appliance can be provided to guide your jaw and ease tension on your joints, which can help you start to recover from your discomfort. If necessary, we can recommend treatment to address dental flaws that have led to TMJ disorder. This includes placing dental crowns on teeth that have lost their ability to comfortably absorb bite support.

What Leads To TMJ Disorder?

No single issue is responsible for TMJ disorder. For some people, it will be the consequence of arthritis in their jaw joints. For others, problems with pain and sensitivity will occur due to an unresolved issue with teeth grinding. You can also have difficulties because of a change in your bite function caused by a past dental injury, or due to a tooth that is naturally small or weak. While some people will require more than just treatment to ease tension or alignment issues, others may require additional services to ensure that they can bite and chew without discomfort.

Easing Jaw Tension With A Custom Appliance

A custom oral appliance designed to ease tension and correct poor joint alignment can help you alleviate discomfort over time. Worn at night, your custom-made guard gently changes the position of your jaw so that less tension is placed on the joints and muscles. When that discomfort is addressed, the gradual easing of stress can lead to less pain, reduced issues with bite troubles, and an overall reduction in discomfort.

Restorative Dentistry Can Improve Your Bite Function

Through the appropriate restorative dental work, your bite function can be improved so that you are able to correct flaws in your jaw movement. Many people lose the ability to bite and chew naturally because of an issue with a tooth that is damaged, infected, or naturally weak. With a custom dental crown put in place, you can find that you no longer struggle with this difficulty, and can stop putting pressure on your joints and muscles. If tooth loss has occurred, a permanent appliance like a dental bridge or dental implant-held restoration can offer valuable support and bite improvement.

Talk To Your Sheridan, WY Dentist’s Office About Treating TMJ Disorder

Our Sheridan, WY dentist’s office has experience caring for patients struggling with TMJ disorder. If you are ready to address your frequent issues with discomfort, contact Grinnell Street Dental in Sheridan, WY by calling 307-672-7567.