Having a healthy smile doesn’t just involve keeping your teeth pearly white and gums free from infection. In fact, good dental health includes having a healthy temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the joint that connects your jaw to the rest of your skull. Unfortunately, TMJ disorders are common and can be quite painful if left untreated. Therefore, it is important to understand how these disorders develop and what can be done to treat them.
One of the best places in Bend to learn about TMJ disorders is from Dr. Mingus. Dr. Mingus has been practicing dentistry in Bend for over 20 years and is an expert in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. He specializes in the treatment of TMJ disorders and has developed a comprehensive and personalized approach to help improve patients’ overall oral health. Dr. Mingus stays up to date on the latest research and treatment options available and will work with you to find the best treatment option to meet your needs.
Understanding What TMJ Disorders Are
TMJ disorders are a range of complex problems that affect the TMJ and the surrounding muscles. One of the most common causes of TMJ disorder is a misaligned bite. If the lower and upper teeth are not properly aligned, excessive strain and pressure can be placed on the TMJ and muscles around it. This can cause pinched nerves, damaged joint tissue and inflammation. Other causes of TMJ disorders include trauma, hereditary factors, arthritis and even chronic grinding or clinching of the teeth.
TMJ disorders can have symptoms that range from mild to severe. Some of the most typical symptoms include jaw pain, headaches, earaches, neck and shoulder pain, difficulty chewing, clicking and popping in the joint, and even dizziness or ringing in the ears. If you have one or more of these symptoms, make sure to consult with your dental professional as soon as possible.
Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders with Dr. Mingus
Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to help manage TMJ disorders. Dr. Mingus will first do a thorough examination to properly diagnose the cause of the problems. Then, he will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to help reduce any pain or other symptoms and improve your overall oral health. Treatment options might include over-the-counter medications, prescribed medications, lifestyle and behavior changes, jaw exercises, relaxation techniques, and stretches that can help to relieve the pressure in the jaw joint.
In some cases, more advanced treatment options may be required. Dr. Mingus is able to offer a range of treatments, including custom fitted mouth guards or oral appliances, orthodontic treatment, physical therapy or cognitive-behavioral approaches. These treatments can be extremely effective in reducing the pain associated with TMJ problems and improving your overall well-being. Dr. Mingus will work with you to create a treatment plan that best meets your needs and desires.
The Importance of Future Research
The treatment of TMJ disorders has come a long way in the last few years. However, there are still many unanswered questions, which means that future research is needed. This research could lead to the development of new treatments and improved guidelines for managing TMJ disorders. Dr. Mingus is committed to staying up to date on the latest scientific research and is a member of several professional organizations that are working to advance the understanding and treatment of TMJ-related problems.
In addition to working with other dental professionals, Dr. Mingus also works with other medical professionals, including rheumatologists, neurologists, and physical therapists. This multidisciplinary approach is essential for helping to determine the underlying cause of TMJ disorders and developing a comprehensive treatment plan.
In Summary
TMJ disorders are a common problem that can lead to chronic pain and disability. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatment options available to help reduce the symptoms associated with TMJ disorders and improve overall oral health. Dr. Mingus is an experienced and committed dentist who has been practicing in Bend for over 20 years and is an expert in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. He works with each of his patients to develop a personalized treatment plan that best meets their needs and desires. In addition to providing a range of treatments, Dr. Mingus is also committed to staying up to date on the latest research and working with other medical professionals to help advance the understanding and treatment of TMJ disorders. If you have noticed any symptoms of TMJ disorders, contact Dr. Mingus today to schedule an appointment and learn more about the treatment options that might be available.