TMJ disorders can impact your quality of life, causing discomfort and preventing you from enjoying many normal daily activities. Here at Norton Family Dental, we offer TMJ treatments using 3D printed occlusal guards and Photobiomodulation (PBM) laser therapy to improve your oral function and quality of life. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Ethan Norton and learn more about TMJ treatment in Kernersville, North Carolina, please call our office at 336-996-6551.
What Is a TMJ Disorder?
The TMJ is the temporomandibular joint, or the joint that connects your lower jaw to the rest of your head. TMJ disorders, also called TMD, occur when this joint is stressed, injured or misaligned. This may be a result of stress, arthritis to the TMJ, trauma and injury, or bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching). Some common symptoms of TMJ disorders include:
- Grinding, clicking or popping sounds when you move your jaw
- An inability to open your mouth wide to speak, yawn or chew
- A locked or suck jaw
- Pain when chewing and biting
- Frequent headaches
- Pain in your neck, shoulders or ears
When you visit our office, our dentist will assess your jaw joint to determine the extent of your TMJ disorder. This will allow us to determine which type or combination of treatments will be most effective for you.
3D Printed Occlusal Guards
Traditional occlusal guards are often generic in size and fit and can sometimes exacerbate TMJ symptoms due to improper alignment. Our 3D printed occlusal guards, on the other hand, are designed to fit the unique contours of your mouth perfectly. Through precise imaging technologies, our dentist can ensure that your mouth guards will effectively redistribute bite forces, relieve pressure on the TMJ and prevent further damage to your teeth. Additionally, the rapid manufacturing process of 3D printing significantly reduces the waiting time for you to receive your custom occlusal guards, offering a quicker path to relief.
Photobiomodulation (PBM) Laser Therapy
PBM laser therapy offers a noninvasive treatment option that uses low-level lasers to stimulate healing within the TMJ. This therapy works at the cellular level, promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation and pain. The lasers penetrate the tissues around the TMJ, encouraging blood flow and the regeneration of damaged cells. PBM laser therapy has been shown to provide significant pain relief, improve jaw functionality and even enhance the effectiveness of other TMJ treatments, such as occlusal guards.
We invite you to call our office today to learn how TMJ treatment can benefit you and schedule your personal consultation with our dentist. We are here to help you enjoy a healthier and pain-free quality of life!