TMJ Therapy – Allen, TX
Relief from Chronic Jaw Pain
Your TMJ is the joint that connects your lower jaw to the rest of your skull. It is quite complex, and when something goes wrong with it, you may experience a range of unpleasant symptoms. But how can you recognize TMJ problems, and what can you do to solve them? Dr. Keyvan Kar is ready to help you find long-lasting relief from your pain via TMJ therapy.
What Is TMJ Dysfunction (TMD)?
TMJ disorder, sometimes called TMJ dysfunction or simply TMD, refers to a variety of issues that affect how the TMJ functions and feels. TMD can be caused by numerous factors, including a misaligned bite, improper jaw positioning, trauma, anatomical abnormalities, stress, poor posture, and more. In many cases, the exact cause of TMD is difficult to pinpoint.
Regardless of TMD’s cause, however, it often leads to some serious symptoms:
- Persistent jaw pain
- Aching facial pain
- Difficulty chewing
- A locking or popping sensation in the jaw
- Headaches and migraines
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Hearing and balance problems
Because TMD can produce so many different symptoms, it is often misdiagnosed. If you believe you are suffering from it, consulting a dentist in Allen who is trained to recognize and treat TMD is the best course of action.
Treatment Options
There are a number of different treatment options for TMD. Dr. Kar will evaluate your jaw function and recommend a therapy that he believes will work for you. One popular therapy uses an oral appliance that you insert into your mouth at night. It resembles a mouthguard that you would wear for sports. The appliance can help to bring the jaw into proper alignment and thus relieve stress on the TMJ and the surrounding muscles.
In addition to prescribing an oral appliance for you, Dr. Kar might recommend that you supplement your TMJ therapy with at-home remedies. Applying heat or cold to the side of your face may help to take the edge off the pain. You should also avoid chewing gum or any foods that require a lot of effort to consume. Trying to cut back on the amount of stress in your life and performing facial exercises may also be beneficial.
Benefits of TMJ Therapy
For most people, symptoms of TMD may eventually subside on their own. However, that doesn’t mean you should simply wait out the pain. Seeking professional help may help you learn the cause of your discomfort so you can prevent future flare-ups. Additional benefits of TMJ therapy in Allen include:
- Fast pain relief. TMD pain can seriously affect your quality of life. Seeking professional help can allow you to start feeling like yourself again as soon as possible.
- Lower risk of dental problems. TMD is often associated with teeth grinding, which can cause serious damage to your teeth if it is not addressed.
- Enjoy your food again. A well-functioning jaw can allow you to consume even the heartiest foods without discomfort.
- Protect your overall health. TMD is correlated to a number of serious health conditions, including dizziness, sleep disorders, and more. Seeking TMJ therapy may reduce your risk of such problems.