TMJ Treatment Skokie, IL

Headaches, jaw pain, and difficulty chewing are all common signs of a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Also known as TMJ, a TMD is often a dysfunction in the jaw joints. Although there is no one singular cause of a TMJ disorder, common causes can include:

  • Stress
  • Genetics
  • Malocclusion
  • Teeth grinding or clenching, especially during sleep
  • Bite disorders, like an uneven bite due to fitted dentures, fillings, and dental crowns
  • Dental Trauma. Any injury to the joint area caused by an accident or surgical procedure
  • Development disorders

As experienced restorative dentists in Skokie, IL. Dr. Abraham Stein and Dr. Zachary Weiss provide diagnosis and comprehensive treatment for TMJ and bite disorders. If you are experiencing any signs of a TMJ disorder, be sure to visit our dental office for a consultation.

Common Signs Of TMJ

The signs of a TMJ disorder can vary. It is important to discuss any changes in your dental health with your dentists during your appointment. Patients suffering from a TMJ disorder experience common symptoms. The most common signs and symptoms include:

  • Limited or restricted jaw mobility
  • Teeth clenching or grinding
  • Signs of tooth wear
  • Shoulder and neck pain
  • Migraines or frequent headaches
  • Unexplained tooth damage
  • Clenching or grinding of the teeth
  • Clicking or popping sound
  • Earaches
  • Popping, grating, or clicking noises while chewing or during mouth movement
  • Muscle pain around the jaw area
  • Feeling of a stuck jaw which makes eating difficult
  • Jaw pain
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Facial pain
  • Jaw tenderness

Treatment Options For TMJ in our Skokie, IL Office

There is a wide range of treatment options for those dealing with TMJ disorder. Our team at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry can work with you to explore some of your treatment options. After a comprehensive examination and thorough discussion of your symptoms, we can recommend the best solution for your smile.

Treatment options for TMJ disorder can include one or more of the following:

  • Restorative Dentistry: TMJ disorders will usually leave behind a trail of tooth damage. If you have sustained worn, chipped, or overall damaged teeth, we may recommend one more restorative dental treatment. Treatment options to repair your smile may include dental crowns, dental bonding, or dental implants. Ultimately, it will depend on the extent of the damage.
  • Mouthguards and splint therapy: A custom oral appliance is often worn during sleep to help reposition the jaw. It can prevent the teeth from making contact and help relieve stress on the joints and muscles in the mouth.
  • Orthodontics treatment: If the underlying cause of a TMJ disorder is malocclusion, we may recommend Invisalign. We can coordinate with a trusted local orthodontist for treatment.

TMJ Disorder FAQs

Can TMJ be only on one side?

Lots of patients experience their TMJ pain only on one side. This is very common, however, it affects both sides of your jaw; even if your TMJ symptoms only appear on one side.

How long does it take for TMJ to get better?

Many patients notice that after resting, their jaw and symptoms begin to feel better. Muscle relaxation is important to healing TMJ. Most patients begin to notice symptoms dissipating two weeks after treatment and rest.

Is TMJ permanent?

TMJ is not irreversible. With treatment, most patients are able to cure TMJ pain. Some habits lead to worsening TMJ symptoms. These include teeth grinding, clenching, or putting excessive pressure on the joint. Breaking these habits will help with TMJ pain.

How do you calm a TMJ flare-up?

The best way to calm a TMJ flare-up is to apply heat or ice to the area. This will relieve pain and inflammation. Patients may try OTC pain relief to help alleviate any pain, as well as jaw exercises. For example, jaw exercises and massaging promote blood flow and help calm temporomandibular joints.

What is the main cause of TMJ Pain?

The main cause of TMJ pain is jaw and muscle issues such as a misaligned bite, arthritis, or trauma.

Can TMJ affect speech?

Patients with TMJ typically need to adapt their speaking to pain in their jaw. This may affect some sounds. Patients may also find that they are producing too much saliva while speaking.

Would you like to learn more about treating TMJ disorder in Skokie, IL? Find Relief For TMJ In Skokie, IL, at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry!

Visit the experienced professionals at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry for the care you need. We offer a complete range of treatment options to address many types of dental concerns, including TMJ disorder. Schedule a consultation with our team to learn more about your options. To schedule an appointment, call 847-750-3125 or request an appointment online.