Are you seeking treatment for TMJ pain and jaw dysfunction? At Pier 210 Dental Group, we help our patients treat and manage symptoms associated with TMJ disorder with top TMJ therapies in Auburn, CA and beyond!
Managing TMJ Pain: The Role of Invisalign, Fotona Laser, Botox and Splint Therapy
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain can be a debilitating condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. It is often characterized by symptoms such as jaw clicking, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, and radiating pain to the head, neck, and shoulders. While there are various causes of TMJ pain, such as jaw injury or degenerative joint disease, it is most commonly associated with bite problems and misalignment of the teeth in relationship to the jaw.
The Connection Between Bite Problems and TMD
The temporomandibular joint is comprised of a cartilage disc between the top of the jawbone (condyle) and the skull and allows for smooth movement during activities like chewing, talking, and yawning. When the bite is misaligned, it can put excessive strain on the TMJ and surrounding muscles, leading to pain and discomfort. This is where Invisalign comes into play.
Using Invisalign to Correct Bite Problems
Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses clear aligners to gradually shift teeth into their proper position. While primarily used for cosmetic reasons, Invisalign can also be an effective solution for correcting bite problems and relieving TMJ pain with Pier 210 Dental Group.
Dr. David Roholt, a highly experienced general dentist, has taken countless hours of continuing education on TMJ therapy and occlusion (the way teeth and jaw come together). With his expertise in Invisalign treatment, our provider is able to address bite problems that contribute to TMD and provide significant relief for patients and pain management. Dr. David Roholt has treated numerous patients with TMJ pain using Invisalign. By carefully planning the alignment of the teeth in relationship to jaw joint position, he is able to alleviate the strain on the TMJ and provide long-lasting pain relief for our patients in Auburn, CA and beyond.
Fotona Laser for Muscle Spasm and Pain Relief
In addition to correcting bite problems, muscle spasms can also be a source of TMJ pain. This muscular tension can be caused by stress, clenching or grinding of the teeth, and can lead to headaches, neck pain, and even migraines. To address this issue, Dr. Roholt utilizes Fotona laser therapy.
Fotona laser therapy at Pier 210 Dental Group is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level laser light therapy (LLLT), also called PhotoBioModulation (PBM) to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation in muscles and tissues. This helps relax the muscles and provide relief from pain and discomfort. The treatment is quick, painless, and has no downtime, making it an ideal solution for those suffering from TMJ-related muscle spasms.
Splint Therapy for TMJ Pain Relief
Many patients with TMD experience symptoms at night, such as teeth grinding or clenching. Also known as bruxism, this can put added stress on the jaw and exacerbate TMJ pain. To address this issue, Dr. Roholt may recommend a custom-made night guard.
A night guard, also known as a splint, is a custom-made appliance that fits over the teeth and protects them from grinding or clenching. It can also help to properly align the jaw and reduce strain on the TMJ. The use of a night guard has been shown to be an effective treatment for relieving TMJ pain and reducing muscle tension in certain situations.
Dr. Roholt has extensive experience in creating splints for patients with TMJ pain. He carefully designs each splint to fit comfortably and address the unique needs of each patient. Splint therapy can provide significant relief from TMJ pain and can also help prevent further damage to the joint.
Injection Therapy for TMJ and Bruxism
Facial injection therapy is another innovative treatment that Dr. Roholt offers for managing TMJ disorders and bruxism. Botox, or Botulinum toxin, is commonly known for its cosmetic applications, but it also plays a significant role in medical therapies. When used for TMJ and bruxism, it is injected directly into the jaw muscles to temporarily relax them, reducing the tension and clenching that contribute to TMJ pain.
TMJ treatment with injection therapy is a minimally invasive procedure that is relatively quick, with most sessions lasting less than 30 minutes. Patients typically begin to notice improvements within a few days! Injection therapy at Pier 210 Dental Group can provide relief from jaw pain, reduce headaches associated with TMJ, and significantly decrease the muscular discomfort caused by nightly teeth grinding.
Dr. Roholt's expertise in administering targeted injections for TMJ therapy ensures that each patient receives appropriate care tailored to their specific symptoms, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment.
Find TMJ Relief with Top Treatments
At Pier 210 Dental Group, we help patients find relief from painful TMJ symptoms with modern, targeted treatments. For fast, effective TMJ treatment in Auburn, contact us today to schedule your visit!
