TMJ Treatment in Encino, CA

Relieving TMJ Pain and Restoring Your Quality of Life

Your mouth performs essential functions every day, enabled by many components working seamlessly together. One key component is the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which allow you to open, close, and move your mouth. When healthy, the TMJ function effortlessly. However, when these joints become irritated or inflamed, even the smallest movements can result in significant pain. At Encino Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide effective solutions to help alleviate TMJ pain and restore normal function.

What are the TMJ?

The temporomandibular joints are two ball-and-socket joints located on either side of your face, connecting your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull. These joints are cushioned by a disc that absorbs pressure during movement. The TMJ play a vital role in helping you perform everyday activities like biting, chewing, speaking, and more.

How TMJ Disorder Develops

Several factors can contribute to TMJ disorder, including:

• Bruxism: Clenching and grinding teeth, often caused by stress, medication, or poor alignment, places excessive pressure on the TMJ.
• Facial Trauma: Injuries from falls, car accidents, or sports can irritate the TMJ.
• Jaw Dislocation: Dislocations or whiplash can cause small tears in the joint, leading to inflammation and irritation.
  

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

Symptoms of TMJ disorder often begin mildly but can worsen if left untreated. These symptoms include:

• Jaw and facial swelling.
• Facial pain and discomfort.
• Difficulty eating and speaking.
• Temporary lockjaw.
• Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations in the jaw.
• Chronic headaches or earaches caused by radiating pain, often leading to misdiagnosis.
  

What are My Treatment Options?

TMJ disorder is treatable, and several options are available depending on the severity of your condition:

• Home Remedies: Over-the-counter pain relievers, ice packs, and stress-relief techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help reduce symptoms.
• Night Guard: A custom oral appliance worn during sleep absorbs the impact of grinding and clenching, reducing pressure on the TMJ.
• Orthodontics: Correcting tooth or jaw alignment through orthodontic treatment can alleviate TMJ symptoms.
• Oral Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair or reposition the TMJ, providing relief and restoring function.