TMJ Therapy – Oklahoma City, OK
Find Relief from Persistent Facial & Jaw Pain
Do you know where your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are? Place two fingertips on either side of your face just under the ear and open your mouth — you’ll feel something move. These joints connect your lower jaw to the skull and play a huge role in your oral health. However, too much pressure can cause you to develop TMJ Disorder, which can cause you to experience persistent pain and even tinnitus and tooth grinding.
Fortunately, our Oklahoma City, OK dentist, Dr. Joe Isaacson, can provide you relief with TMJ therapy. This can help alleviate any strain, tension, or weakness in your facial muscles. Read on to learn how you can benefit from our treatment options.
Understanding TMJ Disorder?
TMD or TMJ Disorder is a condition where your jaw muscles become stiff due to being constantly strained or overworked. While symptoms vary from patient to patient, the disorder is characterized by symptoms including severe headaches and bruxism (teeth grinding). TMD can be caused by factors including a previous injury, bite misalignment, and stress. If not treated properly, this condition can gradually wear on your jaw over time.
Causes of TMJ Disorder
While TMJ Disorder can be caused by a number of factors, most cases usually result from excessive stress being placed on your jaw. Other causes of TMJ Disorder include:
- Osteoarthritis of rheumatoid arthritis in the joint
- Teeth grinding or unconsciously clenching your jaw
- Muscle or joint damage due to a past injury
- Damaged disc within the joint muscle
- Misaligned or missing teeth
If you experience any discomfort or pain in your jaw, call our Oklahoma City, OK office at (405) 943-8575 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Isaacson and receive treatment. Otherwise, you’ll be at risk of developing more harmful symptoms.
Identifying & Diagnosing TMJ Disorder
How do you know if you have TMJ disorder in the first place?
While TMJ Disorder is a complex condition that can manifest in different ways, there are still some common signs to look out for in everyday life. Symptoms that may require you to visit Dr. Isaacson for TMJ treatment include:
- Osteoarthritis of rheumatoid arthritis in the joint
- Teeth grinding or unconsciously clenching your jaw
- Muscle or joint damage due to a past injury
- Damaged disc within the joint muscle
- Misaligned or missing teeth
Dr. Isaacson is highly familiar with recognizing signs of TMJ Disorder and will be sure to screen for it during every regular checkup. Be sure to let him know during your appointment if you’ve been experiencing any of the above symptoms on a routine basis.
Permanent Relief With Occlusal Splints
Patients are able to achieve lasting relief from TMJ Disorder with occlusal splints. These custom-made mouthpieces are designed to reposition the jaw comfortably into a more natural and relaxed position. This overrides jaw misalignment and also helps to condition your facial muscles to shift into their correct position. If your TMD is specifically caused by bruxism, it will also provide a sturdy barrier to prevent your teeth from getting damaged.
As long as you use your occlusal splint as directed by Dr. Isaacson every time you go to sleep, there is a good chance that you’ll achieve permanent relief from TMJ-related symptoms! Our team looks forward to assisting you soon here in Oklahoma City, OK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does TMJ Disorder go away on its own?
Your TMD symptoms likely won’t go away on their own without proper TMJ treatment. Ignoring whatever pain you’re experiencing can lead to further complications with your jaw and potentially require more invasive procedures. To start finding relief from your TMD, schedule a consultation with your dentist so that they can develop a proper treatment plan.
When should I seek treatment for my TMJ Disorder?
It’s important to receive TMJ therapy as soon as possible to relieve your symptoms while preventing them from getting worse. Schedule an appointment with your dentist so that they’re able to conduct a full evaluation and give you the resources you need to find relief. That way, you can get back to living your life without pain.
Can TMJ Disorder cause me to develop hearing loss?
TMD can cause hearing loss if left untreated for too long. Your temporomandibular joints are located on either side of your head and near your ears. If there’s an issue with this area, it can cause you to develop problems with your hearing due to the close proximity. The good news is that receiving TMJ therapy can help improve your ears and hearing abilities.
How will my dentist treat my TMD symptoms?
Your dentist will determine the root cause of your TMD by evaluating your oral cavity before administering treatment. Getting to the root causes of your symptoms is as important as the treatment itself. In cases where your TMJ Disorder is caused due to teeth grinding, you may be given occlusal splints to shift your jaw into proper alignment while you sleep.
Visit Joe Isaacson Dental for TMJ Therapy
Are you dealing with frequent facial or jaw pain? Visit Joe Isaacson Dental to receive immediate treatment. Our team can address the root of your TMJ issues with occlusal splints to shift your jaw into proper alignment and provide lasting relief.
Call our Oklahoma City, OK office at (405) 943-8575 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your appointment. We provide TMJ therapy to patients who reside in Lakehurst, Mayview, Highland Hills, Glenbrook, and North Coronado Heights, OK.