If you experience jaw pain, headaches, clicking sounds, or difficulty chewing, you may have TMJ disorder (TMD). At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, we offer customized TMJ treatments to relieve pain, restore jaw function, and improve your quality of life. Our expert team provides non-surgical and minimally invasive solutions to help you manage temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction effectively.
What is TMJ Disorder (TMD)?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull, allowing you to chew, speak, and move your mouth comfortably. TMJ disorder (TMD) occurs when there is inflammation, misalignment, or dysfunction in the joint, leading to pain and discomfort.
Common Causes of TMJ Disorder:
- 🦷 Teeth grinding (bruxism) – Excessive clenching or grinding can strain the jaw.
- 😬 Jaw misalignment – An improper bite can cause uneven stress on the TMJ.
- 🦠 Arthritis – Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ.
- 💆 Stress and muscle tension – Chronic stress can cause unconscious jaw clenching.
- ⚠️ Injury or trauma – Accidents or direct impact can damage the joint.
Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder affects more than just the jaw joint—it can impact your entire face, neck, and even shoulders.
- 🤕 Jaw pain or tenderness (especially near the ear)
- 😖 Clicking, popping, or grinding noises when opening or closing the mouth
- 😵 Ear pain, ringing (tinnitus), or a feeling of fullness in the ears
- ⚠️ Frequent headaches or migraines
- 💤 Teeth grinding (bruxism) during sleep
- 💪 Neck, shoulder, and facial muscle pain
🔹 If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek TMJ treatment to prevent further damage and long-term discomfort.
TMJ Treatment Options at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group
1. Custom TMJ Mouth Guards & Night Guards
A custom-fitted mouth guard or night guard can help prevent teeth grinding (bruxism) and relieve jaw tension while you sleep.
- ✔ Prevents excessive pressure on the TMJ
- ✔ Reduces teeth grinding and clenching at night
- ✔ Helps relax the jaw muscles for pain relief
🔹 Best For: Patients with bruxism-related TMJ pain or those who grind their teeth while sleeping.
2. Bite Adjustment (Occlusal Equilibration)
If your bite is misaligned, it can put stress on your TMJ and cause chronic pain. Bite adjustment therapy corrects bite imbalances to relieve joint pressure.
- ✔ Adjusts high points on teeth that cause uneven pressure
- ✔ Restores proper jaw alignment
- ✔ Prevents further damage to the TMJ
🔹 Best For: Patients with malocclusion (bad bite) or uneven tooth wear.
3. TMJ Physical Therapy & Jaw Exercises
Specific jaw exercises and stretches can strengthen the TMJ muscles and improve mobility.
- ✔ Strengthens jaw muscles to improve function
- ✔ Reduces inflammation and stiffness
- ✔ Relieves jaw tension and pain
🔹 Best For: Patients with TMJ-related muscle tightness or jaw stiffness.
4. Botox® Injections for TMJ Pain Relief
Botox® injections can help relax overactive jaw muscles and reduce pain from TMJ disorder.
- ✔ Blocks nerve signals that cause muscle contractions
- ✔ Relieves chronic jaw pain and headaches
- ✔ Minimizes teeth grinding and clenching
🔹 Best For: Patients with severe jaw pain, chronic headaches, or muscle tension.
What Happens If TMJ Disorder is Left Untreated?
Ignoring TMJ symptoms can lead to chronic pain and long-term complications, including:
- 🚨 Worsening jaw joint damage
- 🚨 Increased teeth grinding & enamel wear
- 🚨 Chronic migraines & tension headaches
- 🚨 Jaw misalignment or lockjaw
- 🚨 Hearing problems & tinnitus (ringing in ears)
🔹 Early treatment is crucial to prevent permanent damage and improve your overall well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Do I Know If I Have TMJ Disorder?
If you experience jaw pain, clicking noises, difficulty chewing, or chronic headaches, you may have TMJ disorder. A professional evaluation is the best way to determine if you need treatment.
Will a Mouth Guard Help My TMJ Pain?
Yes! A custom-fitted night guard can reduce grinding, relieve jaw tension, and protect your teeth from further damage.
How Long Does TMJ Treatment Take?
Treatment duration varies based on severity, but most patients experience relief within weeks with the right therapy. Ongoing management may be needed for long-term symptom control.
Can TMJ Disorder Be Cured?
While there is no permanent “cure” for TMJ disorder, proper treatment can significantly reduce symptoms and improve jaw function.
Is TMJ Treatment Covered by Insurance?
Many insurance plans cover TMJ treatment, including mouth guards and physical therapy. Our team can help verify your coverage and provide financing options if needed.
Schedule Your TMJ Consultation in Austin, TX!
Don’t let TMJ pain control your life! Contact Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group today to get expert TMJ treatment and start feeling better.
📍 Location: 1500 W 38th St Ste 34, Austin, TX 78731
📞 Phone: (512) 451-7491
🖱 Book Online: request an appointment
request an appointmentSay goodbye to jaw pain—schedule your TMJ consultation today!