TMJ Treatment/Night Guards/Injections

TMJ Pain Explained

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. On the other hand, TMD (temporomandibular disorder) refers to conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles surrounding it. TMJ pain can happen for various reasons, including injury, arthritis, or bruxism (teeth grinding). Also, it can occur when the jaw joint is misaligned, or the muscles are strained.

Since the TMJ is used for chewing, speaking, and even yawning, any discomfort or stiffness in this joint and surrounding areas can make daily activities challenging and cause chronic pain. Knowing what TMD is and why it causes discomfort can help individuals identify potential causes and seek the appropriate TMJ treatment options.

How Night Guards Help

Fortunately, several TMJ treatments are available to alleviate these symptoms, and one of the most effective is wearing a custom-fitted night guard. A TMJ night guard is a dental appliance worn while sleeping to help prevent teeth grinding and clenching, which can aggravate TMJ pain. By cushioning the teeth and gently separating the jaws, a night guard can reduce pressure on the temporomandibular joint and promote healing. If you suffer from TMJ pain, a night guard may be the solution for a good night’s sleep and a pain-free morning.

How TMJ Injections Work

Another common type of TMJ treatment is TMJ injections. These injections work by relaxing and freezing the muscles around the affected joint, decreasing movement and discomfort. For those that suffer from debilitating TMD symptoms, ask our Jamaica Estates dentists about TMJ injections as the solution for finally finding relief from chronic facial pain.

JamaicaEstates logo white