TMJ Treatment – Gainesville, GA
Stop Chronic Jaw Pain In Its Tracks
Do you find yourself waking up with jaw pain on a regular basis? Have you experienced pain while chewing or even noticed clicking and locking of your jaw? If so, it might be because your jaw’s joints, commonly called the TMJ, are experiencing disproportionate amounts of force. At Dr. Her’s dental office, we can perform a detailed exam of your jaw, build a detailed diagnosis, and help determine the best option to get you out of pain. To get started with TMJ treatment in Gainesville, GA, call our dental office today!
Why Choose Lifetime Dental of Gainesville for TMJ Treatment?
- Digital Impressions System for Easier Capture of Your Oral Structures
- Custom-Made Oral Appliances Available
- 3D Cone Beam Scanner Makes Confirming Cause of Pain Simple
TMJ/TMD Diagnosis & Treatment
When you first arrive for your exam, we’ll start by closely examining the way your bite comes together. You’ll also get a chance to tell us about your unique symptoms and how long you’ve been experiencing them. After careful examination, we’ll create a diagnosis of your jaw issues and go over the most practical treatments that will work for you. Our goal is to put your needs first and foremost and only provide therapy that we believe will best address your chronic jaw pain.
Equilibration / Occlusal Adjustments
When patients experience problems with their jaw joints, it’s often because their bite is uneven. That means as you chew certain foods, certain areas of the mouth are experiencing more force than they should be. With equilibration and occlusal adjustments, we can make modifications to your current tooth enamel/restorations in order to make them more even as you bite down. We’ll go over your treatment in detail before making any changes to your current oral structures.
Occlusal Splints
Alternatively, our dental office can design an occlusal splint that protects teeth from bruxism, a condition associated with chronic teeth grinding and clenching, especially during sleep. Once worn, it guides the jaw as it moves side-to-side and front-to-back. Overall, it’s designed to support the TMJ and the muscles typically used while chewing. In most cases, patients experience a difference after just a few days of use!
TMJ Treatment FAQs
Is TMJ Treatment Safe?
When done by a qualified dentist, TMJ treatment is very safe. It won’t damage your jaw or any other areas near your mouth.
You see, most TMJ treatments aren’t invasive for patients. They act very subtly and won’t harm major body structures. The dentist will suggest these options before considering a jaw surgery. After all, the latter always carries some risks.
The latest science proves these truths. Today, occlusal splints and occlusal adjustments are known to be supremely safe. By receiving one or the other, your TMJ symptoms will fade in no time.
How Long Does It Take for a TMJ Splint to Work?
Generally, an occlusal splint takes three to six months to work. TMD discomfort often resolves in that period. Still, every patient is different; you may experience a faster or slower recovery time.
Of course, you may notice a quick reduction of symptoms. That’s only natural – you’ll wear the occlusal splint every night. However, the signs won’t disappear all at once. It’ll take time for your TMJs and the rest of your jaw to reach a healthier position. Instead, you’ll likely wait six weeks before you notice a marked improvement.
Does Occlusal Adjustment for TMJ Hurt?
Thankfully, occlusal adjustment doesn’t hurt. The changes it makes to your teeth and jaws are painless ones. As such, you can expect the treatment to be comfy at every step.
You see, occlusal adjustment only makes minor changes. It simply files down the biting surface of your teeth. (By doing so, the stress on your jaw joints is reduced.) As a result, the most you’ll sense is a slight pressure as the dentist works. You shouldn’t feel any pain.
All that said, you may feel sore after the procedure. However, this symptom is temporary and fades quickly. Your mouth will return to normal in just a few days.
Is TMJ Treatment Covered by Insurance?
In some cases, dental insurance will cover TMJ treatment. The matter depends on your situation. Based on your condition or the treatment, coverage may or may not apply.
Generally, insurance for TMJ treatment is tricky. Coverage (medical or dental) can be complex and vary by state and policy. Some policies even have clauses that exclude TMJ care. Unless mandated by the state, most insurance providers won’t include TMJ coverage.
Given these facts, confirm your plan benefits before seeking care. Your insurance provider can explain whether treatment would be covered.