Do you experience jaw pain, headaches, or discomfort while chewing? You may be dealing with a condition affecting your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). At Ravenwood Dental, Dr. Phil Mangiaracina and our compassionate team provide effective TMJ treatment to help you find relief from jaw pain and improve your quality of life. We aim to reduce your discomfort, restore normal function, and help you enjoy a pain-free smile.
What is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) connect the lower jaw to the skull and play a key role in functions like chewing, speaking, and yawning. When these joints are strained or become misaligned, they can lead to a condition called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). TMD can cause pain in the jaw, face, and even the neck and shoulders, making everyday activities uncomfortable.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder can manifest in different ways, and symptoms may vary from person to person. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may be dealing with TMJ disorder:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing your mouth
- Difficulty or discomfort when chewing
- Headaches or earaches, often mistaken for sinus or migraine pain
- Facial pain or tension
- Stiffness or limited movement of the jaw
- Neck and shoulder pain
TMJ disorder can be caused by factors such as teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw injury, arthritis, or misaligned teeth. Even stress can lead to TMJ issues, as it often causes people to clench their jaw or grind their teeth.
Our TMJ Treatment Options
At Ravenwood Dental, we believe in personalized care to address your specific symptoms and relieve your TMJ discomfort. Dr. Mangiaracina will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to understand the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Oral Appliances (Night Guards)
One of the most effective and non-invasive treatments for TMJ disorder is a custom-made oral appliance, such as a night guard. These devices help keep your jaw comfortable while you sleep, preventing teeth grinding and reducing strain on the jaw joints. Custom night guards are designed to fit your mouth precisely, providing comfort and protection while helping to alleviate TMJ symptoms.
Bite Adjustment (Equilibration)
An uneven bite can sometimes contribute to TMJ pain by putting excess pressure on certain teeth and straining the jaw. A bite adjustment, also known as equilibration, involves carefully reshaping the biting surfaces of the teeth to create a balanced, comfortable bite. This treatment can reduce jaw tension and alleviate pain associated with an imbalanced bite.
Stress Management and Lifestyle Changes
Since stress and habits like jaw clenching and teeth grinding can worsen TMJ symptoms, managing stress through relaxation techniques can help ease TMJ pain. Practicing mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and avoiding chewy or hard foods can support your TMJ health and prevent symptoms from worsening.
Relieve TMJ Pain with Ravenwood Dental in St. John, IN
At Ravenwood Dental, we’re dedicated to helping our patients live pain-free and enjoy full jaw function. Dr. Mangiaracina and our team provide compassionate, personalized TMJ care to support your comfort and well-being. If you’re struggling with TMJ pain, don’t hesitate to contact our St. John, IN office. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward effective relief and improved jaw health.