TMJ/TMD Treatment
Welcome to Iconic Smiles, where we specialize in addressing and treating TMJ/TMD, offering relief and care to our patients in Bellerose, NY. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Daniel Avezoff, our practice is committed to diagnosing and treating this often debilitating condition.
What Is TMJ/TMD?
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) disorders, or TMD, refer to a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles controlling jaw movement. It’s a common issue that can significantly impact the quality of life.
Causes of TMD
The exact cause of TMD can vary, but some common factors include:
- Jaw injury or trauma
- Stress leading to teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Arthritis in the TMJ
- Misalignment of teeth or jaw
Many of these causes are preventable or treatable. If you currently have jaw or teeth misalignment, stress leading to teeth grinding, or other jaw-related pains, talk to Dr. Avezoff about prevention methods. We greatly encourage getting these causes under control to provide TMD relief or prevention.
Symptoms
Symptoms of TMD
TMD symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. Common symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Difficulty in chewing
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth
- Locking of the jaw joint
Keeping track of your symptoms can help our team determine the best treatment options for you. Be sure to bring up any symptoms and possible causes to Dr. Avezoff!
Connections to Sleep Apnea
There is an interesting link between TMD and sleep apnea. Sometimes, the symptoms of TMD can overlap with those of sleep apnea, such as disrupted sleep and fatigue. Treating TMD may also help in alleviating some symptoms of sleep apnea. Here are a few common sleep apnea symptoms to look out for:
- Loud snoring
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Stopping breathing throughout the night (usually observed by someone else)
- Mood swings
- Choking or gasping for air while sleeping
- Morning headaches
If you suspect you may be suffering from sleep apnea, inform Dr. Avezoff and we’ll make a plan to provide relief.
Options
Treatment Options
At Iconic Smiles, we offer various treatments for TMD:
1
Oral Appliances:
Custom-made mouthguards to reduce jaw clenching and teeth grinding.
2
Physical Therapy:
Exercises to strengthen jaw muscles and improve mobility.
3
Medication:
Pain relievers and muscle relaxants to alleviate discomfort.
4
Stress Management:
Techniques to manage stress that might contribute to TMD.
Why Should I Seek TMD Treatment?
A little jaw pain might not seem like a big deal for some patients. Everyone’s TMD will affect them differently, and a dentist like Dr. Avezoff will be able to determine the severity of your case. If you’re not sure about seeking treatment, consider these possible issues TMD can present:
- TMD can cause significant pain or discomfort, interrupting your sleep from pain alone, and causing difficulties with eating and speaking.
- Some untreated cases of TMD can create more health issues down the road, such as constant ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or dizziness (vertigo).
- Some cases of TMD can lead to an increased risk of lockjaw.
- If your TMD is linked to sleep apnea, your overall health is at greater risk due to nightly sleep and oxygen deprivation.
Call Us Today to Schedule an Appointment
If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMD, or have concerns about your jaw health, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call us at (347) 727-1467 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Daniel Avezoff. Let us help you find relief and improve your oral health.
Dr. Daniel Avezoff and the Iconic Smiles team are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for TMJ/TMD. Our approach is tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient, ensuring the best possible outcomes for those suffering from jaw pain and related issues.
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