The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) connect your lower jaw to your skull on each side, allowing you to speak, chew, and yawn comfortably. When the joints or the surrounding muscles become inflamed, injured, or strained, this can lead to a condition known as temporomandibular disorder (TMD).
When you visit Mississippi Dental Arts for a personalized evaluation, our TMJ dentist, Dr. Trace Favre, will identify the source of your symptoms and recommend TMJ treatment in Pass Christian, MS, to restore your comfort and function.
Many people live with TMJ disorder for months or even years before realizing their symptoms are related to the TMJs.
Custom oral appliances and splints are designed to reduce pressure on the jaw joints, relax overworked muscles, and protect your teeth from grinding and clenching (bruxism). These comfortable, custom-made devices help keep your jaw in a more stable position while you sleep, allowing inflamed tissues to heal and offering relief from jaw pain and headaches.
Many patients experience fewer headaches, less jaw stiffness, and improved comfort with consistent use. During your evaluation, we’ll determine whether a custom oral appliance is the best treatment for your jaw pain in Pass Christian, MS.
Bite misalignment can contribute to TMJ symptoms by placing uneven stress on your jaw joints and surrounding muscles. When appropriate, we may recommend bite therapy with SureSmile® clear aligners to gradually straighten your teeth, improve your bite, and reduce strain on your jaw joints.
This discreet orthodontic treatment can help create a healthier, more balanced bite while enhancing your smile. We’ll evaluate your jaw function, tooth alignment, and overall oral health to determine whether SureSmile clear aligners are a suitable option for relieving jaw pain.
The causes of TMD are complex and multifactorial, with numerous factors that can contribute to symptoms. The following issues can increase the risk or contribute to issues:
Ignoring TMJ symptoms can allow the condition to worsen over time, leading to more frequent pain and increasing difficulty with everyday activities like eating, speaking, and yawning. Ongoing stress on your jaw joints and muscles may contribute to chronic headaches, facial pain, neck discomfort, and excessive wear on your teeth from bruxism.
In some cases, the jaw may begin to lock or have a more limited range of motion, making it harder to open and close your mouth comfortably. Seeking timely TMD treatment at Mississippi Dental Arts can help relieve your symptoms, improve jaw function, and reduce the risk of long-term damage.
