Temporomandibular joint disorders, commonly known as TMJ or TMD, are conditions that affect the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. If you are experiencing pain or dysfunction in this area, our dedicated team is here to help. TMJ disorders are conditions that create pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. These conditions might manifest through symptoms such as pain while chewing, difficulty in moving the jaw and a clicking or locking jaw. You may also notice a ringing in your ears, headaches or even a change in the way your teeth fit together.

At Winnsboro Dental, we believe in a holistic approach to treating TMD. Our first step is a thorough evaluation to understand the specific characteristics of your condition. This involves discussing your symptoms, examining your jaw and bite and possibly using imaging tests to get a detailed look at the joint and surrounding structures.

How We Address TMD

Our treatment strategies are tailored to your unique needs. We focus on relieving pain and restoring normal function through a combination of therapies:

• Physical Therapy: We guide you through exercises that help strengthen the jaw muscles, enhance flexibility and reduce pain. These exercises also aim to correct alignment issues, reducing stress on the jaw joint.
• Medications: Depending on your situation, we may recommend medications to help manage pain and inflammation associated with TMJ.
• Oral Appliances: In some cases, wearing a custom-made oral appliance at night can help relieve pressure on the joint, align the jaw properly and prevent teeth grinding that might exacerbate your symptoms.
• Stress Management: Since stress can often trigger or worsen TMJ symptoms, we also explore techniques such as biofeedback or counseling to help manage stress effectively.
• Referral to Specialists: If your case requires more specialized intervention, we coordinate with expert surgeons or orthodontists to ensure you receive comprehensive care.

If you are struggling with symptoms of TMD, do not hesitate to reach out to our team at 318-435-4648. Together, we can develop a treatment plan that best suits your lifestyle and leads you back to comfort and health. Schedule your visit with our dentist, Dr. Robert Brooks, to discuss your options for TMJ and TMD treatments in Winnsboro, Louisiana.