TMJ/TMD Treatment in Chesapeake, VA
If you’re experiencing chronic jaw pain, headaches, difficulty chewing, or clicking sounds when you open your mouth, you may be suffering from Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). At the Center for Restorative, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, we specialize in TMJ/TMD treatment in Chesapeake, VA, offering personalized solutions to relieve your pain and restore optimal jaw function.
What is TMJ/TMD?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull, allowing smooth movement for speaking, chewing, and yawning. When this joint becomes inflamed or misaligned, it can lead to Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), causing discomfort and dysfunction in the jaw and surrounding muscles.
Common Symptoms of TMJ/TMD
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw
- Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully
- Facial pain and earaches
- Locking of the jaw
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional TMJ/TMD treatment in Chesapeake, VA before the condition worsens.
Causes of TMJ/TMD
There are several factors that contribute to TMD:
Excessive grinding can strain the jaw muscles and joints.
Poor bite alignment can place stress on the TMJ.
Inflammation in the TMJ can lead to pain and restricted movement.
Trauma to the jaw or head can damage the TMJ.
Clenching your jaw due to stress can aggravate TMJ pain.
Understanding the root cause of your TMD helps us create a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your discomfort effectively.
Comprehensive TMJ/TMD Treatment in Chesapeake, VA
Custom Night Guards & Oral Appliances
For patients suffering from teeth grinding (bruxism) or jaw clenching, we offer custom-fitted night guards and oral appliances. These devices reduce pressure on the TMJ, preventing excessive strain and further damage.
Bite Adjustment Therapy
If an improper bite (malocclusion) is causing your TMD, we may recommend occlusal adjustments to realign your teeth, promoting balanced jaw movement and reducing stress on the joint.
Jaw Exercises & Physical Therapy
Specific jaw exercises and physical therapy techniques strengthen jaw muscles, enhance mobility, and reduce stiffness, helping alleviate TMJ discomfort naturally over time.
BOTOX® for TMJ Relief
For patients with severe muscle tension, we offer BOTOX® injections, which relax overactive jaw muscles, relieving jaw clenching, tension headaches, and chronic pain.
Stress Management & Lifestyle Adjustments
Stress often exacerbates TMJ/TMD symptoms. We provide guidance on stress reduction techniques, posture correction, and relaxation exercises to minimize tension-related jaw discomfort.
Orthodontic Treatment
In some cases, Invisalign or braces may be necessary to correct bite misalignment and reduce strain on the TMJ, offering long-term relief.
Surgical Treatment (If Required)
While most cases respond well to non-invasive treatments, severe TMD may require surgical intervention. Our specialists carefully assess each patient’s condition before recommending surgical options.
Why Choose Us for TMJ/TMD Treatment in Chesapeake, VA?
At the Center for Restorative, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, we are committed to providing top-quality TMJ/TMD treatment in Chesapeake, VA. Here’s why patients trust us:
FAQs
If you experience persistent jaw pain, clicking sounds, headaches, or difficulty chewing, you may have TMD. A dental evaluation can confirm the diagnosis.
Insurance coverage varies by provider. Our team can assist you in understanding your benefits and filing insurance claims.
Mild cases may improve with self-care, but chronic TMD often requires professional treatment to prevent worsening symptoms.
Treatment duration varies depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen therapy. Some patients see relief in weeks, while others may need ongoing management.
Surgery is only considered in extreme cases where other treatments have failed. Most patients find relief through non-invasive therapies.