TMJ Dentist Harleston Norfolk
If you're seeking a experienced TMJ / bruxism pain treatment expert near you in Norfolk, our 5-star rated Harleston dentists can help!
TMJ explained
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ) is a term used to describe a condition in which the jaw muscles become painful, leading to restricted movement. TMJ affects millions of people worldwide. Its movement may become noisy, and if symptoms persist, then treatment becomes more challenging to manage, reducing the patient's quality of life.
There is no one specific cause for TMJ; it is often a blend of several different factors. However, common causes of TMJ include excessive teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw injuries, genetics, and stress. In many instances, individuals suffering from TMJ have experienced trauma to the jaw or surrounding muscles due to accidents or sports injuries.
TMJ Symptoms
Symptoms of TMJ can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:
1. Jaw pain or tenderness
2. Jaw joint clicks or pops
3. Discomfort opening mouth
4. Facial or neck pain
5. Headaches or migraines
6. Earaches, ringing in ears
7. Toothache
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a dentist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. The treatments for TMJ dysfunction range from self-care measures, medications, physical therapy, or dental treatments, depending on the condition severity.
STEP BY STEP GUIDE
TMJ Procedure
By following these steps, individuals with Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction can navigate the treatment process, improve their jaw function, and enhance their quality of life.
Diagnosis
To treat TMJ, a precise diagnosis is necessary. This may involve a detailed analysis by our dental experts, including symptom evaluation, physical exams, and potential imaging like x-rays or MRIs.
Self-Care and Lifestyle Modifications
Patients with TMJ may find relief through self-care and lifestyle adjustments. These could include: managing stress, consuming soft foods, minimising jaw movements, and applying cold or warm packs.
Medications
For relief of TMJ symptoms, drugs like NSAIDs may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation, muscle relaxants to lessen tension in the jaw muscles, or other medications to manage symptoms like headaches.
Occlusal Appliances
Splints and mouth-guards, used as occlusal aids in TMJ treatment, reduce jaw stress. Our dentists custom-fit these devices for daily or nightly use.
Physical Therapy
Jaw exercises, manual therapy, and stretching can enhance function, reduce muscle tension, and increase mobility for TMJ patients through physical therapy techniques.
Stress Mgmt. & Behavioural Therapy
Stress management techniques like relaxation exercises, biofeedback, and cognitive-behavioural therapy can help alleviate amplified TMJ symptoms.
Trigger Point Injections
For those with jaw muscle pain and trigger points, local anaesthetic injections like Botox could be used to lessen pain and muscle tightness.
Surgical Intervention (Severe Cases)
If all else fails, arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, or open joint surgery can help resolve structural issues.
Regular Follow-Up and Monitoring
Regular TMJ treatment follow-ups to check progress, adjust treatment, and handle existing or new symptoms, with your healthcare provider.
Affordable TMJ Pricing
In addition to the expertise of our highly skilled and experienced dentists in Harleston, we also offer highly competitive prices for TMJ treatments when compared to other TMJ clinics in Norfolk and North Suffolk.
TMJ Costs
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Benefits of Choosing Us:
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Extended opening hours
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Experienced team
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NHS and private patients
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Latest treatments
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Competitive rates and finance
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
We have put together some commonly asked questions.
What are TMJ symptoms?
Common symptoms of TMJ include jaw pain, difficulty in chewing, clicking / popping sounds in the jaw, head-aches, and pain in the ear.
How is TMJ diagnosed?
TMJ is usually diagnosed by a physical examination of the jaw, bite analysis, imaging tests (like x-rays or MRI), and a review of the patient's medical history.
What are TMJ treatments?
TMJ treatment could be changes in lifestyle, jaw work-outs, pain meds, physiotherapy, use of mouth-guards or splints, and surgery in severe cases.
Can TMJ be cured?
TMJ is a chronic condition. It may not be completely cured, but symptoms can be effectively managed with appropriate treatment and self-care measures.
When will TMJ treatment relief be seen?
There are those who start to see progress immediately after their TMJ treatment commences, while some require a longer timeframe.
Are there any self-care tips?
Sure, here are a few abridged TMJ self-care tips: apply ice on jaw, manage stress, consume soft foods, minimise jaw motion, and uphold proper posture.