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TMJ Treatment

Grand Rapids TMJ Dentist

Great Lakes Dental Care can provide advice and treatment for patients who show symptoms for TMJ, which stands for temporal-mandibular joint.

Temporal, as in temple area of skull; mandibular as in mandible, or lower jaw; and joint as in it's where the head and jaw meet.

Problems with this joint may be caused by a misalignment of the teeth, oral trauma or excess muscle tension. Cartilage buffers the two bones that meet there and five muscles are also related to this area of the mouth. If something goes wrong, a great deal of pain and trouble can result.

Benefits of TMJ Treatment

Problems in this area can cause:

  • Headaches
  • Earaches
  • Trouble or soreness when opening or closing the mouth
  • Clicking or popping of the jaw
  • Pain in the jaw muscles
  • Soreness in the area, sometimes extending to the face

Dental treatments for TMJ can include replacing missing teeth, moving teeth, adjusting your bite, or filling gaps between teeth. There is no solution that is right for all patients. Our knowledgeable and professional team can help you determine which option is best for your specific situation. In some cases, a plastic mouthpiece may be used to prevent clenching or grinding that is contributing to the problem. If untreated and taken to extremes, surgery may be required to repair a badly damaged joint.

If you have additional questions or would like more information on TMJ treatment, please contact Great Lakes Dental Care or call or text us at 616.784.6300.