If you experience jaw pain, clicking, stiffness, headaches, or discomfort when chewing, your Gretna dentist can help determine whether your symptoms relate to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). TMJ pain treatment starts with understanding what may be causing your discomfort.
What Happens During a TMJ Evaluation?
A TMJ evaluation by a dentist typically begins with a discussion about your symptoms and medical and dental history. Your dentist performs a TMJ jaw examination, checking how your jaw moves, and looking for tenderness, clicking, or other signs of dysfunction.
Depending on your symptoms, your dentist may also take dental x-rays or other imaging to assess your teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures.
What Treatments Can Help TMJ Pain?
Treatment depends on your individual symptoms and their likely cause. Your dentist may recommend conservative options first, such as changes to habits that place strain on the jaw, exercises, or custom oral splints for TMJ pain.
A mouthguard or oral splint may help reduce pressure on the jaw and protect your teeth, particularly if you clench or grind them. Your dentist can explain whether this approach is appropriate for you.
Have TMJ Pain? Get It Checked!
If jaw pain or discomfort is affecting your daily life, schedule an appointment for an assessment. A dentist can evaluate your symptoms and discuss suitable treatment options with you.