The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the joints that connect the lower jaw to the skull. Stress or injury to these joints can cause temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). Patients with TMD often clench and grind their teeth or experience jaw and tooth pain. Additionally, patients are more prone to TMD if they have crooked teeth or a misaligned bite. At Hartland Dental Care, we offer restorative dental care for patients with painful TMD symptoms. Dr. Michael Sesi works with patients to provide high-quality TMJ treatment in his Hartland, MI dental office.
Signs of TMJ Disorders
Common symptoms of TMD often include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness in the jaw
- Toothaches
- Ear pain and earaches
- Chronic headaches and migraines
- Jaw popping or clicking
- Teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism)
- Pain biting and chewing
Contact us if you have any of these symptoms. Our dentists will examine your smile for signs of TMD. They will also consider your current symptoms to find the right treatment for your needs.
Treat TMJ Disorders in Hartland, MI
We offer conservative treatment for patients with TMD. Oral appliance therapy is one of the best options for patients with bruxism or teeth clenching and grinding. Many patients clench and grind their teeth under stress during the day or unconsciously at night. Over time, patients with bruxism can experience tooth wear, jaw pain, toothaches, and headaches.
We can create custom-made nightguards to alleviate these symptoms. Our dentists take dental impressions used to create nightguards made of hard acrylic. The nightguard covers the top or bottom row of teeth to prevent further tooth wear or dental injuries. Wearing a nightguard during sleep relieves pressure in the jaw joints and muscles. We may also recommend physical therapy or a soft diet to patients. During physical therapy, patients learn the best exercises to alleviate pain and tension in their back, shoulders, arms, neck, and jaw. Sticking to a soft diet for several weeks also releases pressure on the jaw.
Schedule a Dental Consultation
Treat TMJ disorders at Hartland Dental Care today. Contact us at 810-255-5203 or request a dental appointment with our dentists on our website. We also welcome you to ask us any questions about your symptoms or treatment options.