Effective Non-invasive TMJ Treatment for Effective Relief from TMD Symptoms

Jaw misalignment and other issues can cause you to develop temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, otherwise known as TMD. This condition can cause severe and far-reaching issues for your health. Dr. Damien F. Armstrong can help patients understand the causes of TMD, using advanced 3-D scans and measurements. He also offers effective TMJ treatment from our East Ridge and Downtown Chattanooga, TN, dental practices.

Dr. Armstrong offers custom-fit guards, which provide the best fit and protection. These advanced appliances can help realign your jaw, alleviating painful symptoms.

How Your TMJs Can Be Affected

TMJ disorders occur when the temporomandibular joints, which connect the upper and lower jaw, fail to function correctly. The joints, located on each side of your head, help the lower jaw move in all directions, making it possible to open and close your mouth. Different issues can occur, preventing the joints and the attached muscles from working together correctly, causing misalignment and pain. These conditions are referred to as TMJ disorders, or TMD.

What Causes TMJ Disorders?

For some patients, the exact cause of their TMJ disorder can be difficult to find. Several factors can cause the disorder. The temporomandibular joint consists of an upper and lower bone separated by a small disk that helps maintain smooth movement. If the disk moves out of alignment or experiences erosion, it can cause TMJ disorder. Other possible causes include:

• Arthritis
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Dislocation or other injury to the jaw
• Stress
• Malocclusion

Symptoms of TMD

TMJ disorders can present with many different symptoms. Unfortunately, most of these symptoms can also occur with other problems, so you may find it hard to know for sure if you have TMJ disorder. Dr. Armstrong will carefully examine your mouth and jaw and take detailed, 3-D scans to help him make his diagnosis. Symptoms of TMD include:

• Headaches and migraines
• Popping or clicking sounds when you open your jaw
• Sudden misalignment of the upper and lower teeth
• Tension and discomfort in the neck and shoulders
• Persistent pain in the jaw, especially when chewing or speaking
• Pressure and pain behind the eyes
• Pain and ringing in the ears
• Limited jaw motion or locking in a certain position

Treating Your TMD

For most patients, Dr. Armstrong will provide a mouth guard. This device is typically worn at night and provides non-invasive, effective treatment. Rather than suggesting a one-size-fits-all stock guard or a boil-and-bite option, Dr. Armstrong offers custom-fit guards, which provide the best fit and protection. These advanced appliances can help realign your jaw, alleviating painful symptoms. We will take impressions of your teeth, which will be forwarded to a trusted partner dental lab. There, skilled dental technicians will fabricate your mouth guard to your exact specifications. The custom-fit guard can stay in place all night, providing reliable protection against grinding and clenching, and effective relief from pain and discomfort.

Find Effective Relief

If you experience symptoms of TMJ disorders, especially lingering pain or a locked jaw, contact our office as soon as possible to schedule an appointment with Dr. Armstrong. He can provide non-invasive treatment for lasting relief and improved oral health.