TMJ Disorder Treatments

Say Goodbye to Jaw Pain with TMJ Treatments in Fort Worth, TX

Are you struggling with jaw pain that just won’t quit? You’re not alone. Millions of people suffer from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), commonly known as TMJ disorder. But there’s hope! At Lake Country Dental, the best dental office in Fort Worth, TX, we offer effective TMJ treatments to help you reclaim your life from persistent jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing. 

Serving Fort Worth and the surrounding areas of Saginaw, White Settlement, and Azle, Dr. Snider and his dedicated team are ready to provide personalized care using the latest advancements in TMJ treatment. Call us today at 817-236-8771 to schedule a consultation and discover the path to lasting relief.

Understanding TMJ Disorder

Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) acts like a hinge, connecting your jawbone to your skull. When this joint is misaligned or inflamed, it can cause a variety of painful symptoms, including:

• Jaw pain and tenderness: Often described as a dull ache or sharp pain, particularly when chewing, talking, or yawning.
• Clicking or popping sounds: Audible noises when opening or closing your mouth.
• Limited jaw movement: Difficulty fully opening your mouth or locking of the jaw.
• Headaches: Frequent tension headaches or migraines, often originating in the temples.
• Earaches and tinnitus: Pain in or around the ear, and ringing in the ears.
• Facial pain: Discomfort in the face, particularly around the cheeks and jaw.

If you recognize any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek professional help by calling  817-236-8771. Dr. Snider at Lake Country Dental in Fort Worth, TX, can accurately diagnose the cause of your discomfort and recommend appropriate TMJ disorder treatments.

Why Choose Lake Country Dental in Fort Worth, TX?

At Lake Country Dental, we are committed to providing compassionate and personalized care. Dr. Snider and his team prioritize patient comfort and strive to create a relaxing environment. We use advanced technology and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in TMJ disorder treatments.

Dr. Snider has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. He will take the time to understand your concerns, answer your questions, and develop a treatment plan that meets your needs.

TMJ Disorder Treatments 

Dr. Snider at Lake Country Dental takes a comprehensive approach to temporomandibular disorder treatment, utilizing a variety of methods to address your specific needs. Please note we may not offer all of these treatments at our office. Call  817-236-8771 to learn more. 

• Oral splints (night guards): Custom-fitted appliances worn over the teeth, usually at night, to prevent teeth grinding and reduce jaw clenching.
• Orthodontics: Braces or clear aligners can correct bite problems and improve jaw alignment.
• Restorative dentistry: Replacing missing teeth or repairing damaged ones can help restore proper bite function.
• Physical therapy: Targeted exercises and stretches to strengthen jaw muscles and improve joint mobility and prevent jaw locking.
• Medications: Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs drugs can temporarily relieve TMD symptoms.
• Diet: Eat soft foods to lessen the intensity temporomandibular joint dysfunction symptoms.

When is TMJ Surgery the Right Choice?

Here are some situations where TMJ surgery might be recommended:

• Significant Joint Damage: Conditions like advanced osteoarthritis or a dislocated disc may require surgical intervention to repair or reconstruct the joint.
• Restricted Jaw Movement: If your jaw movement is severely limited, impacting your ability to eat or speak, surgery may be needed to restore function.
• Failed Non-Surgical Treatments: When conservative options like oral splints, physical therapy, and medications haven’t provided adequate relief, surgery may be considered.
• Chronic, Debilitating Pain: If you experience persistent pain that significantly affects your quality of life, and other treatments have been unsuccessful, surgery may be an appropriate solution.

Exploring Holistic TMJ Treatment Options in Fort Worth

At Lake Country Dental, we believe in a comprehensive approach to TMJ treatment. Dr. Snider often recommends exploring holistic therapies alongside traditional methods to provide well-rounded care. These can include:

• Acupuncture: This ancient practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. Acupuncture may help reduce TMJ pain and inflammation.
• Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic adjustments can improve spinal alignment and reduce tension, which may alleviate TMJ-related pain and improve jaw mobility.
• Massage Therapy: Targeted massage techniques can release muscle tension in the jaw, neck, and shoulders, reducing pain and promoting relaxation.
• Essential Oils: Certain oils, like lavender and peppermint, have anti-inflammatory properties and may offer relief when applied topically.
• Herbal Supplements: Some herbs possess natural anti-inflammatory effects and may help manage TMJ symptoms. Always consult with Dr. Snider before starting any new supplements.

Lifestyle Changes for TMJ Relief

In addition to professional treatments, incorporating these lifestyle changes can significantly impact your TMJ pain:

• Diet: Focus on anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and fatty fish, while limiting processed foods, sugar, and alcohol.
• Stress Management: Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises.
• Quality Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night to reduce stress and allow your body to heal.
• Warm and Cold Compresses: Alternating between warm and cold compresses can help soothe pain and reduce inflammation.

Benefits of Seeking TMJ Disorder Treatment

Addressing TMJ disorder can significantly improve your quality of life. Effective treatment can:

• Reduce or eliminate jaw pain: Reclaim the ability to eat, talk, and yawn without discomfort.
• Improve jaw function: Restore normal jaw movement and reduce clicking or popping sounds.
• Alleviate headaches and earaches: Minimize the frequency and intensity of headaches and ear pain.
• Enhance sleep quality: Reduce teeth grinding and promote restful sleep.
• Improve facial aesthetics: Correct bite problems and enhance the appearance of your smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes TMJ to flare up?

TMJ flare-ups happen for many reasons. Stress can make you clench your jaw or grind your teeth, putting pressure on the joint. Grinding your teeth at night (bruxism) also strains the TMJ. Even changes in diet, hormones, and excessive talking or playing musical instruments can trigger flare-ups.

What are the risks associated with TMD surgery?

TMD surgery, while generally safe, has potential risks like any surgery. These include bleeding, infection, and, in rare cases, nerve damage that affects feeling in your jaw. There’s also a risk of damage to surrounding tissues. 

How can I prepare for TMD surgery?

Preparing for TMD surgery depends on the procedure. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions, including when to stop eating and drinking before surgery and how to manage your medications. You might need to arrange a ride to and from the hospital and take time off work to recover.

Schedule a Jaw Joint Pain Consultation with Dr. Snider

Are you tired of living with the constant ache of jaw pain in your upper and lower teeth? Is it impacting your sleep, your ability to enjoy meals, or even your mood? At Lake Country Dental in Fort Worth, TX, we understand the debilitating effects of TMJ disorder. Dr. Snider and our compassionate team are here to help you find relief and reclaim your quality of life. 

Don’t wait another day to seek help. Call us now at 817-236-8771 to schedule a consultation. We welcome patients from our neighboring communities of Saginaw, White Settlement, and Azle. Take the first step towards a pain-free life!