tmj treatment
Here to help you get relief from the pain
For many people suffering from pain and discomfort in the joints of the jaw (TMJ), simple acts such as chewing or talking can be difficult. This pain can be mild and intermittent, or intense and radiating. Clicking, popping and grinding in the joint(s) can also be present. People who deal with TMJ pain very often suffer from ear pain, migraines, or awake in the morning with headaches. They may also clench or grind their teeth at night or during the day. Very commonly the root cause of joint pain is an imbalance in your bite – the way your teeth come together.
For many people suffering from pain and discomfort in the joints of the jaw (TMJ), simple acts such as chewing or even talking can be difficult. This pain can be mild and intermittent, or intense and radiating. Clicking, popping and grinding in the joint(s) can also be present. People who deal with TMJ pain very often suffer from ear pain, migraines, or awake in the morning with headaches. They may also clench or grind their teeth at night or during the day.
Very commonly the root cause of joint pain is an imbalance in your bite – the way your teeth come together. Over 90% of people don’t bite in the most ideal position.
We offer a wide a range of treatments for TMJ pain. With advanced diagnostic imaging and a thorough exam, Dr. Williams will carefully design a treatment plan that will best address your TMJ discomfort.
Treatment Options
We offer a wide range of treatments for TMJ pain. With advanced diagnostic imaging and a thorough exam, Dr. Williams will carefully design a treatment plan that will best address your TMJ discomfort.
Often TMJ pain is related to the way our teeth come together. Many of us have an upper jaw that is too small to correctly come together with the lower jaw. This puts the joints in a compromised position that is uncomfortable and over time can cause significant pain. Correcting this imbalance between the upper and lower jaw can relieve years of TMJ discomfort.
Occlusal Splint
Occlusal splints are a type of “night guard” designed to relieve the stresses we put on our joints and muscles throughout the day, and particularly at night. The forces we put on our teeth at night, while we sleep, is far greater than throughout the day and can cause significant damage over time. The splint acts as a guard to prevent further damage, as well calm sore muscles and joints.
Splint therapy may also be prescribed during the day if pain is significant, or prior to major restorative work to learn more about a patients’ bite and function.
Invisalign® Treatment
Malaligned teeth can cause the teeth to function improperly, which can lead to changes within the temporomandibular joint, also known as the TMJ. Over time this can cause pain and discomfort in the joint and surrounding muscles, headaches and other painful symptoms. Correcting how the teeth come together can have a significant improvement, if not completely resolve these symptoms.
At Summit Dental, Dr. Williams opts to use Invisalign® aligners, a clear aligner to correct malaligned teeth. She prefers this over traditional braces in adults due to the intermittent forces that are put on the teeth to help them move. This allows the teeth to move more slowly through the bone, without increasing the length of time in treatment.
FATMA A.
She was able to get my family in and taken care of, as new patients, within a reasonable amount of time. She is personable and professional. Her staff is friendly and willing to go above and beyond to provide transparency and education for upcoming procedures. I highly recommend Dr. Misty Williams and the Summit Dental staff!
"Dr. Williams is fantastic!
Her staff is friendly and willing to go above and beyond..."
NERMINE E.
Dr. Williams and her staff truly go above and beyond to make sure that they are providing you with the best care and service. Dr. Williams is honest and thorough in her work. Friendly and caring environment. Would highly recommend!
"I’ve never felt more comfortable and well taken care of at a dentist."
CHRISTINA C.
Not only is the Dr/dentist fabulous but she also knows the key to a good office is the people you surround yourself with. I am exceptionally pleased with the work they have done and would recommend anyone to go see them. You will leave smiling for more than one reason.
Her office support makes you so comfortable that you no longer dread or fear going to the dentist.
BRITNI O.
Wonderful staff! Dr. Williams is compassionate and caring! She gives her full attention to her patients and makes sure her patients leave with a smile! Highly recommend. Friendly and clean environment. Makes going to the dentist so much better!
Dr. Williams gives her full attention to her patients and makes sure they leave with a smile!
kind words from our clients
The team in your corner.
Every patient has a different dental journey, and that's why our entire team is dedicated to providing you with excellent, personalized care. We strongly believe a healthy body begins with a healthy mouth. Our comprehensive approach is focused on the overall health of the mouth and surrounding structures, from functionality to aesthetics.
With clear communication at the heart of our practice, we want to help you feel empowered with the tools and knowledge to live a vibrant, joyful life.