Are you having jaw or facial pain? Are you experiencing difficulty in opening your mouth? These symptoms may be due to a problem in the jaw called Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder. If you have identified these symptoms in you, then you might have an idea how tough it is to deal with such disorder and how difficult and painful it is to live with it.
Fortunately, TMJ disorder can be treated by various dental treatments. Bend, Oregon residents can take advantage of the expertise of Dr. Mingus to get help with the pain and discomfort associated with TMJD.
What is TMJ?
TMJ or the Temporomandibular Joint Disorder refers to a variety of conditions in which the muscles responsible for moving the jaw become dysfunctional. Symptoms of TMJ disorder can include jaw joint pain, muscle pain, difficulty opening and closing the mouth, clicking, popping, and locking of the jaw, and headaches. TMJ disorder can also cause difficulty chewing, difficulty swallowing, facial pain, an off-center bite, earache, dizziness, and neck or shoulder pain.
Why do some people get TMJ?
The cause of TMJ disorder varies from individual to individual. Some people may have a tendency to clench their teeth together or grind their teeth at night, which adds stress to the joint and muscles. Trauma to the joint and muscles of the jaw and face are another common factor associated with TMJ disorder. Factors like a poor bite, missing teeth, and malocclusion can also contribute to the development of TMJ disorder.
How can Dr. Mingus help Bend residents treat TMJ disorder?
Dr. Mingus is an experienced general dentist serving the Bend, Oregon community. She has helped countless patients find relief from the discomfort and pain of TMJ disorder. The diagnosis of TMJ disorder may be complex since many different conditions can cause similar symptoms.
However, Dr. Mingus has a range of diagnostic tools at her disposal to help identify the root cause of the problem. Once the diagnosis has been made, a personalized treatment plan can be created to meet the unique needs of the patient.
Treatment options for TMJD can include a variety of dental treatments, including orthotic appliances to help reposition the bite and relieve joint and muscle strain. Digital imaging can be used to help identify anatomical abnormalities that may be contributing to the disorder. Palpation can be used to identify tight muscles, as well as muscle therapies and physical therapy techniques for muscle relaxation and relief of pain. Dr. Mingus also offers injections for intensive medical management and can monitor patients to ensure that the treatments are working.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing the symptoms of TMJ disorder, you don’t have to suffer in silence. There are many treatment options available in Bend, Oregon, including those offered by Dr. Mingus. Dr. Mingus will help you to diagnose the root cause and develop a personalized treatment plan to help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with TMJD. If you’re ready to take the first step to find relief from TMJD, give Dr. Mingus’ office a call today to schedule an appointment.