Do you suffer from chronic headaches, jaw pain, or earaches? You may have TMJ or TMD. A complex and multifaceted disorder, TMJ can be a chronic pain disorder that can negatively impact your life. Asheville dentists Dr. Shawana Hoffert and Dr.Stephen Miller of Red Maple Dental offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of TMJ and occlusal disorders.
TMJ is a chronic pain disorder that can affect the jaw, face, neck and shoulders. Though often associated with malocclusion, TMJ may be caused by a range of factors. Dr. Hoffert and Dr. Miller treat each patient on a case by case basis to ensure they receive comprehensive and conservative dental treatment for their TMJ pain. Like many oral health concerns, understanding the root of the problem allows for more precise care.
Causes of TMJ
TMJ is not caused by one thing and varies among patients. For many patients, several factors cause the chronic pain associated with TMJ.
- Trauma To The Temporomandibular Joints: If your jaw joint was damaged during a sports game, an accident, or even through chronic clenching and teeth grinding, it may contribute to your TMJ pain. If the disc erodes or moves out of alignment it can lead to a popping or clicking sound and may result in arthritic like symptoms.
- Malocclusion: This means your bite is not properly aligned. If your teeth do not fit together properly you can cause stress or damage to the jaw joint resulting in discomfort. In some cases realigning the bite can help reduce TMJ pain.
- Teeth Grinding: Many patients grind their teeth when they are sleeping, or clench their jaw in times of stress. Teeth grinding can cause damage to the jaw joint and put stress on the associated muscles. Oral appliances worn during sleep can help to alleviate the tension caused by teeth grinding.
Schedule An Appointment
If you suffer from chronic facial pain contact our Asheville dentist office. Ask about our sedation dentistry options and how they can help you receive the quality dental care you deserve. Offering a wide range of cosmetic and restorative dental treatments, Red Maple Dental can help you build a healthy, functional and beautiful smile- while feeling calm and relaxed.