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Custom Dental of McKinney, General Dentistry For The Whole Family

Don't Live With Chronic Jaw Pain

Get the jaw pain treatment you need from an experienced dentist.

TMJ Treatment for Chronic Jaw, Neck and Back Pain

Patients with chronic jaw, neck, and back pain may suffer from temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD (also often referred to as TMJ). When there is a problem with the jaw joint and surrounding facial muscles, it can be difficult to get through a single day without some discomfort or pain around the jaw, neck, and shoulders. In some cases, TMJ symptoms go away on their own; but in others, medical intervention and noninvasive treatment options may be necessary.

The cause of TMJ is still unknown but the following can contribute to the condition:

Grinding or clenching your teeth
Stress
Arthritis in the joint
Injury to the jaw or face such as whiplash

CAUSES OF TMJ

Recognizing TMJ Causes and Symptoms

Even though the root cause of TMJ is unknown, many experts link the condition to health issues like arthritis. Patients who have experienced any type of trauma to the face and those who have a habit of clenching and grinding their teeth (bruxism) may also be at risk for developing TMJ symptoms. Fortunately, there are some effective jaw pain treatment options available. You may need to undergo jaw pain treatment if you are experiencing symptoms such as pain or tenderness in the neck and shoulders, headaches and neck aches, jaw joints that get locked in position, or ear pain. An occlusal adjustment (adjusting the way the teeth fit together) and lifestyle changes may be enough to stop aches and pains in the jaw area. In some cases, in-office treatment may be necessary.

IN-OFFICE TMJ TREATMENT OPTIONS

What Are My Options?

Your jaw pain treatment plan may include a combination of lifestyle changes and nonsurgical or surgical procedures. Dr. Bryce Gates may recommend relaxation and muscle stretching exercises to help relax the jaw. We may need to fit you with a nightguard to prevent teeth grinding while sleeping. In some cases, cortisone shots can help reduce some of the inflammation and pain. Only a small percentage of patients end up needing jaw joint replacement surgery.

Learn more about TMJ treatment options by scheduling your appointment with Dr. Gates in McKinney today!

Get A Great Wedding Day Smile

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