Do you live with reoccurring jaw pain? Do you hear a clicking or popping sound when you open or close your mouth? You could be suffering from a disorder of the temporomandibular joint. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates that 5% to 12% of people live with limited mobility of the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull on either side of the face. When the joint functions incorrectly, it can lead to pain, inflammation, and a decreased quality of life due to the various symptoms it can cause. To improve its function and to stop jaw pain in Los Alamitos, your dentist has the solutions you need with neuromuscular dentistry.
Why Does My Jaw Hurt?
Disorders of the temporomandibular joint can result from several issues, such as a previous injury to the jaw, arthritis, or the erosion of the disks causing misalignment. No matter the reason, it can lead to an array of complications, such as jaw pain, inflammation, and tenderness.
It is not uncommon to hear or feel clicking or popping when the jaw is opened or closed. In some cases, it can even lock into one position. This can make it difficult to chew or speak. Over time, you may develop pain in or around the ear, headaches, and significant discomfort.
Although the complications decrease your daily life and create new challenges when performing simple tasks, like chewing, you may be tempted to ignore the problem; however, it is better to seek treatment. If you do not treat the problem, it can lead to dental issues.
How Can I Stop the Pain?
Your dentist in Los Alamitos has the solutions you need to stop your jaw pain with neuromuscular dentistry. This special area of care corrects alignment issues that affect the function of the jaw to create a balanced bite Using computerized instruments, the jaw’s movements are measured to determine the severity of your problem while creating a treatment plan to move the jaw into a more natural position.
By taking the pressure off the joint, it will help to ease the symptoms while improving its function. This involves the use of an orthotic device, which is a custom-made acrylic appliance that is worn over the teeth to reposition your jaw.
This is a simple and noninvasive solution to give you the relief you need. When it is combined with home remedies, like stress relieving exercises, symptoms of the disorder can significantly decline or dissipate altogether.
Stop Your Jaw Pain Today
If you are tired of living with jaw pain, it is time to take control of the issue. Your dentist has the solutions you need with neuromuscular dentistry.
About Dr. William Poe
Dr. William Poe has provided superior dental care since 1989. In addition to general dentistry, he specializes in several areas, including neuromuscular dentistry for the treatment of TMJ disorders. As an award-winning dentist, he will help you restore your quality of life with the effective solution you need to stop your jaw pain. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.