If someone comes in and has issues with TMJ or grinding, we have several options that we can do for treatment. A lot of times we’ll just do a night guard to keep them from being able to grind their teeth at night. If it’s something where they feel like they’re doing it during the day, a lot of times we’ll use Botox, and, you know, put it in the masseter so that they’re not able to clench down and grind. It gets them out of pain. A lot of people have a lot of pain, or sometimes they’ll get headaches from it. So, a lot of times once you can relieve that muscle there and they get relief there, it also keeps them from getting headaches.
Rely on Us for Help With Your TMJ Problems
When your temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are functioning normally, you probably don’t think much about them. However, if they become irritated, you can experience a great deal of pain when performing everyday activities like talking, eating, laughing, and yawning. While researchers aren’t certain of the exact causes of TMJ disorder, they do know that teeth grinding (also known as bruxism) is both a cause and symptom of TMJ problems.
Dr. Lauren Wilburn and our team realize that not every patient will respond to just one kind of TMJ treatment. That’s why we offer you two types of TMJ therapy. At your initial consultation, we’ll discuss your options and help you decide on a course of treatment. Our therapies include:
- Custom-Fitted TMJ Appliance – We’ll have a professional TMJ mouthguard made for you to wear while you sleep. It will gently move your lower jaw forward to relieve tension on your TMJs. The appliance will also help prevent bruxism and the associated headaches it can cause.
- Botox® Injections – A quick injection will help lessen the movement of the muscles in your jaw, helping to reduce pain and discomfort in your jaw joints. We may need to repeat this procedure every few months for best results.
Call Columbia Family Dentistry today at 931-548-6161 to schedule a consultation for TMJ treatment in Columbia. You can also request an appointment online or talk to us about your TMJ problems at your next dental cleaning and exam.
