4905 Green Road, #111, Raleigh, NC 27616
TMJ Disorder Relief and Jaw Pain Treatment
Jaw pain can make everyday activities—like eating, talking, or smiling—uncomfortable or even painful. Many people experience this discomfort due to a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. The TMJ connects your jawbone to your skull and allows smooth, natural movement. When this joint becomes strained or misaligned, it can cause pain that affects your quality of life. At Gentle Smiles of Raleigh in Raleigh, NC, we offer personalized TMJ treatments designed to relieve pain, restore comfort, and improve jaw function.
What is a TMJ Disorder?
A TMJ disorder occurs when the joint or surrounding muscles become irritated, inflamed, or misaligned. This condition can lead to pain not just in the jaw, but also in nearby areas like the head, neck, or shoulders. While some patients experience temporary discomfort, others may face ongoing pain or stiffness. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing long-term complications and maintaining proper jaw movement.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
- Jaw pain or stiffness, especially when chewing or yawning
- Clicking, popping, or grinding noises during jaw movement
- Headaches, earaches, or pressure behind the eyes
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully
- Tenderness or soreness around the jaw joint
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism): Constant pressure on the jaw muscles and joints
- Stress: Leads to muscle tension and unconscious jaw tightening
- Injury: Trauma to the face, jaw, or neck can disrupt joint function
- Arthritis: Wears down the cartilage in the joint over time
- Bite misalignment: Uneven teeth or bite issues can strain the jaw
TMJ Treatment Options
TMJ treatment focuses on relieving pain, restoring proper jaw movement, and preventing future strain. Most cases can be managed with conservative, non-surgical methods, such as:
- Custom oral appliances: Night guards or stabilization splints to reduce grinding and ease joint pressure
- Bite adjustments or orthodontic care: Correct misalignment and balance the bite
- Physical therapy or relaxation techniques: Improve muscle flexibility and reduce tension
- Lifestyle changes: Eating soft foods, avoiding excessive chewing, and managing stress
- Pain management: Using hot or cold compresses, jaw exercises, or medication as recommended
Find Lasting Relief for TMJ Pain
At Gentle Smiles of Raleigh in Raleigh, NC, we understand how frustrating jaw pain can be. Our experienced dental team provides compassionate, effective TMJ care to help you regain comfort and confidence in your smile. Don’t let jaw pain control your life—schedule a consultation today to start your journey toward lasting relief.
