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.
TMJ 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 Therapy
Occlusal splints are a type of bite 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 to teeth and the joints over time. The splint acts as a guard to prevent further damage, as well as calm sore muscles and more correctly position our 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.
All of our occlusal splints are made in house, specifically to your teeth. Follow up appointments may be few or many, but we will ensure the splint is fitted in both form and function to give you the best result.
Bite Adjustments after Occlusal Splint Therapy
Because so many joint and muscles problems stem from a poor bite, one of the most common treatments is to restore or adjust your bite to a better position. While splint therapy is always our first line of treatment, a bite adjustment often follows. This can take many forms, including orthodontics, equilibration or restorative treatment.
Botox
Botulinum toxin, commonly known as botox, is widely known as a facial esthetic treatment, used to treat fine lines and wrinkles. It can also serve as an incredible tool to decrease muscle tension from TMJ disorders. It has multiple uses in multiple areas of the face and neck in these situations. We can talk about whether this treatment is right for you.
"Dr. Williams is fantastic!
Her staff is friendly and willing to go above and beyond..."
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!
FATMA A.
"I’ve never felt more comfortable and well taken care of at a dentist."
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!
NERMINE E.
Her office support makes you so comfortable that you no longer dread or fear going to the dentist.
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.
CHRISTINA C.
Dr. Williams gives her full attention to her patients and makes sure they leave with a smile!
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!
BRITNI O.
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The dental care 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.