TMJ
(Tempro-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction)

TMJ is diagnosed with a dental exam along with the analysis of the patient’s medical history. However, there is no single test available to determine if a patient has TMJ. Our dentist might refer you to an oral and maxillofacial specialist for additional analysis. In some cases, certain patients are referred to a dentist who specializes in treating jaw disorders in order to confirm the initial diagnosis or provide additional valuable insight.

If you know or suspect you suffer from TMJ, dial (425) 888-2703 to schedule an appointment with our office. If necessary, we will order an MRI of the joint to determine if the jaw joint’s cartilage has been damaged. The MRI will also help us rule out the prospect of other medical issues being responsible for the pain around the joint.

In terms of treatment for TMJ, your specific treatment hinges on your unique pain and how your body responds to different treatment modalities. The dentist might advise the use of prescription medications. It might also help to perform exercises that enhance the jaw muscles. Bite plates and night guards also help as they reduce the amount of grinding and clenching. What matters most is that you obtain the professional analysis and opinion of our dentist so you can move forward with the right treatment plan.

Bruxism

You might suffer from bruxism during the nighttime hours as you sleep yet you won’t have a good idea of whether you have this common issue unless you visit with our dentist. Dial (425) 888-2703 to find out how our dentist can help treat your bruxism. In particular, we fit patients with mouth guards that safeguard the teeth against grinding while sleeping. Even stress reduction techniques have the potential to prevent excessive grinding. As an example, visiting with a physical therapist, commencing an exercise program or meeting with a counselor to alleviate stress might help reduce your bruxism. Even a prescription for a muscle relaxant has the potential to prove quite helpful.

The dentist will delve into tips and advice that help you reduce your bruxism or at least mitigate its impact. As an example, it will help to minimize the amount of food and beverages you consume that contain caffeine. Try to avoid or limit your intake of alcohol as teeth grinding is particularly strong after the consumption of alcohol. Above all, wear the mouth guard provided by your dentist and you will find your teeth remain in that much better shape even if your bruxism continues for years or decades.

Mouth Guards

Most people have heard about mouth guards provided by dentists yet few proactively ask their dentist about whether they can benefit from a mouth guard. Though wearing a mouth guard is not something most patients want to do, taking this preventative step has the potential to prevent all sorts of oral health problems down the line. Contact our dental practice at (425) 888-2703 to schedule an appointment where we can tell you about occlusal mouth guards. These removable mouth guards help minimize wear and tear along the teeth as you sleep during the night.

The best mouth guards adhere to the quality standards as established by the American Dental Association or ADA for short. These standards require that the mouth guard fit properly to the patient’s mouth for adaptation to the oral structures, consist of resilient material that is FDA approved, cover all teeth on an arch, prove easy to clean, remain securely in place and minimize force transmission in the event of contact during sports.

The mouth guard that is best for your mouth will ultimately come down to your specific needs and desires. Your dentist will help you determine if you need a customized mouth guard for your specific teeth and gums or if a generic mouth guard will suffice. Opt for a personalized mouth guard created by a dental lab technician and it will mold to your teeth for the best possible comfort and protection.