How can we help you?
Having questions when choosing a dentist is natural! After all, your oral health is an important part of your overall health. Here is a list of some of the most common questions we receive. If you do not see yours listed below, please give us a call. We look forward to hearing from you.
TMJ or Jaw Pain
TMJ pain and problems are some of the most difficult areas of dentistry as it can be hard to properly diagnose and can cause problems ranging from tooth sensitivity to ear pain to headaches. The good news though with most TMJ pain is that it does get better with time. The jaw does heal itself except in exceptional circumstances, and the symptoms of TMJ problems can be managed with over the counter pain meds, soft diet, and self-care such as massages and hot compresses.
TMJ Symptoms Getting Worse?
If you feel like your symptoms are worsening or that they are not going away, causing discomfort in your day-to-day life, or causing significant pain, popping, clicking, or jaw locking, we should address your condition. We offer occlusal splint (night guards) to help address the symptoms of TMJD. Having severe jaw problems can affect your quality of life, quality of sleep, and limit the foods you eat.
Treatment with a night guard is non-invasive and can protect your teeth from damage due to clenching and grinding, a common cause of jaw pain.
If you are experiencing TMJ pain, please contact us at NOLA Dentures and General Dentistry for an evaluation. We can offer you treatment options to give you greater comfort and peace of mind.
When to worry about jaw pain.
Some jaw pain is temporary. Soreness after eating something hard or tension after a stressful day often clears up on its own. However, some jaw pain is a sign of something that indicates a need for professional attention.
Jaw Pain Symptoms That Warrant a Dental Visit
Contact NOLA Dentures and General Dentistry in Gretna, LA, if you notice any of the following:
- Jaw pain that lasts more than a few days: Persistent jaw pain that does not improve with rest is not normal and needs evaluation
- Jaw pain while chewing: Discomfort every time you eat, especially on one side, often points to a joint or bite problem
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds: Jaw clicking and pain together are a common sign of TMJ disorder, a condition affecting the joint that connects your jaw to your skull.
- Limited jaw movement: Difficulty opening your mouth fully, or a jaw that locks or catches, indicates a joint issue that will not resolve without treatment
- Pain that radiates: Jaw pain that spreads to the ear, temple, or neck may involve the TMJ or surrounding muscles
What Causes Persistent Jaw Pain?
Common causes include TMJ disorder, teeth grinding, bite misalignment, and infection. In some cases, jaw pain is referred pain from a dental problem elsewhere in the mouth.
Jaw pain rarely improves on its own when it has lasted more than a few days. Call NOLA Dentures and General Dentistry at (504) 392-5104 to schedule an evaluation or book online.
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.