Questions to Consider When Choosing a TMJ Dentist

TMJ disorder is a complex condition characterized by much more than just pain; the muscle tension and inflammation caused by TMJ disorder lead to a diverse span of symptoms, which can include any of the following:

• Headaches
• Dizziness and balance problems
• Pain in the upper back and neck
• Tingling or numbness in the fingers
• Clicking or popping sounds when chewing
• Dental issues, including pain, damaged teeth
• Facial pain
• Tinnitus (ringing ears)
• Earaches
• The feeling of fullness in the ears
 
While any of these symptoms on their own can be caused by dozens of different conditions, a combination of several of these signs is indicative of dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint.
 
The best way to determine whether TMJ pain is caused by TMJ disorder or another condition is to visit a TMJ specialist for a diagnosis. At Selective Dental Clinic, our team of dental professionals Dr. Victoria Vuong DDS & Dr. Henry Chang DDS specializes in treating TMJ pain and correcting jaw joint dysfunction. They have the in-depth knowledge needed to identify its root cause, the skills to treat its symptoms, and the experience to prevent it from happening again.

Fortunately, there are a number of home remedies that can provide quick and effective relief for TMJ pain. In serious cases of TMJ disorder, professional dental treatment is almost always required in order to regain proper function of the joint, but mild to moderate cases typically respond well to these at-home therapies:

• Apply Warm or Cold Therapy — This simple but effective option among natural home remedies is the first-line treatment for pain, inflammation, and swelling of all types. The same is true for TMJ disorder; applying warm or cold application helps reduce the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction.

• Over-The-Counter Medicines — Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to treat TMD symptoms such as pain or swelling. However, these medicines should only be used if advised by a physician.

• Dietary Changes — Certain foods, especially chewy foods, can place extra stress on the jaw joint, causing the muscles to tighten and the jaw to lock. Hard foods can also place a great deal of strain on the jaw, so it is recommended to eat soft foods to avoid jaw movement and, therefore discomfort.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction is extremely prevalent; approximately 34 percent of the adult population living in the United States has at least one sign or symptom of TMJ problems. Because of this preponderance, TMJ specialist practices are becoming more common. A typical TMJ consultation will include a thorough examination of the jaw joint as well as a discussion of symptoms. Depending on the symptoms the patient is experiencing, a number of different tests may be performed. However, the dentist may be able to determine the root cause of the TMJ disorder and establish a diagnosis without any further testing. After a diagnosis has been established, the dentist will go over the treatment plan with the patient, detailing the specifics as well as important information about their recovery.

A number of problems can occur if TMJ disorder is not treated in a timely manner. This can include:

• Chronic jaw pain and joint damage
• Headaches
• Compromised oral health
• Hearing problems
 
If you are looking for an experienced TMJ dentist to help you improve your jaw health, come to Selective Dental Clinic! Call us today or book an appointment with our TMJ dentist, or visit our clinic conveniently located at 3151 South White Road, Suite 203 San Jose, CA 95148. We serve patients from all over Santa Clara County CA: San Jose, Milpitas, Santa Clara, Campbell, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Saratoga, Los Gatos CA, and beyond!