Early symptoms of TMJ disorder often manifest as a dull ache around the temples as well as the jaw muscles. Some people with issues in their temporomandibular joints will also experience discomfort when biting down or an uncomfortable clicking or locking up in the joint.
If you have been experiencing symptoms like this, you should seek a professional diagnosis from our doctor. After assessing the potential sources and severity of your TMJ disorder Dr.Carl McMillan will present you a possible treatment plan.
At first, eating a diet of softer foods, performing simple facial stretches and periodically applying hot or cold packs might help reduce TMJ disorder symptoms. If our doctor feels that chronic night grinding, is also a factor with your temporomandibular discomfort he might recommend sleeping with a dental guard in your mouth.
It is a soft plastic oral appliance that you insert in your mouth shortly before falling asleep. The comfortable fit will help cushion the biting surfaces of your teeth while also minimizing the stress applied to your jaw muscles and joints.
If you don’t experience significant symptom relief within a few weeks, our doctor recommend more advanced treatments.
If you live in the American Fork, Utah, area and you have been struggling to deal with symptoms of TMJ disorder, you should call 801-756-0900 to set up an appointment at TMJ Therapy.