The are responsible for connecting your jawbone to your skull.
When these joints are injured or strained, you are at increased risk for developing a TMJ disorder.
If you have persistent pain in your jaw, jaw joints, ears, or face, you’ll want to schedule an appointment with one of our Grand Rapids dentists.
We’ll be able to determine if your symptoms are caused by a TMJ disorder and whether a night guard or occlusal splint would help. Risk factors for TMJ disorders include:
- Misaligned bite
- Jaw injuries
- Teeth grinding
- Certain types of arthritis
- Genetics
How We Diagnose TMJ Disorders
To diagnose a TMJ disorder, our family dentists will need to physically examine your jaw. During the exam, our dentists will press down on your jaw to identify pain points and evaluate your jaw’s range of motion.
Designed to relieve the stress put on your jaw joints!
Our dentists will also ask you to open and close your mouth while they listen and feel your jaw. As a final precaution, we take dental X-rays to get a better look at your teeth and jawbones.
How We Treat TMJ Disorders
If you are diagnosed with a TMJ disorder, your dentist may recommend an oral splint or night guard. These removable oral appliances are designed to relieve the stress put on your jaw joints while you sleep. For example, your dentist may recommend a night guard if teeth grinding is causing your jaw pain.
Learn More
Our Grand Rapids, MI, TMJ treatment dentists are dedicated to helping you achieve good oral health. Call GR Family Dental today at (616) 455-3020, or contact us online.