What is TMJ?
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint that connects the jawbone to your skull. There is one on each side of the jaw, which works like a sliding hinge that allows us to move our jaw freely. Those with pain in the jaw joint or muscles around it suffer from a TMJ disorder, a type of temporomandibular disorder (TMD).
Symptoms of TMJ
There are a variety of TMJ symptoms you can experience that signal issues with your temporomandibular joint. Some of the signs and symptoms to look out for include:
- Pain and tenderness near and around your jaw
- Pain in one or both of the temporomandibular joints
- Pain in or around your ear
- Difficulty or pain while chewing
- Aching pain around the face
- Swelling on the side of your face
- Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open and close your mouth
- Clicking or grating sensation when you open or close your mouth
Do I Need TMJ Treatment?
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you may be suffering from TMJ. Thankfully, treatment is available. A TMJ specialist can diagnose and discuss possible causes for your TMJ as well as the best course of treatment to get you back to living without daily pain and discomfort.
One of the main causes of TMJ is bruxism, or the clenching and grinding of your teeth and jaw, most commonly at night while you’re sleeping. This is why one of the most recommended treatment options for TMJ is a custom-fitted night guard you wear at night to prevent the strong forces of bruxism from damaging your mouth and jaw.
The Preventive Oral Device® (US Patent 10,639,187) is a mouthguard created by Dr. Scott Simonetti on Long Island to treat TMJ, prevent further damage to your joint, reduce symptoms, and improve your overall quality of life. If you’re looking to get rid of your TMJ symptoms, a night guard might be able to help you.
Contact us to learn about our TMJ treatment options today!
For TMJ treatment in Suffolk County, Dr. Scott Simonetti, a TMJ disorder specialist, is here to help diagnose and put an end to your pain and discomfort caused by a TMJ disorder. Visit our website or give us a call at (631) 277-4848 to learn more about our POD® night guard treatment and how we can help you.