Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder Treatment

The temporomandibular joint, also known as TMJ, consist of the muscles and joints that let your mouth open and close. Like any other joint or muscle in the body, the TMJ can become strained or damaged. When this happens, you can experience pain, discomfort, or a limited range of motion. However, you may not realize that your symptoms come from a TMJ disorder.

At AZ Family Dental, our TMJ specialists can diagnose the problem and help you find relief. We offer quality care at a fair price in a practice with more than 40 years of experience serving the community.

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Why Choose AZ Family Dental?

At AZ Family Dental, we help patients in the greater Phoenix, AZ area achieve their best smiles. Our team members dedicate themselves to learning about the best practices in dentistry to give you top-quality care. From our friendly office staff to our passionate hygienists and dentists, you will find that we all care about your well-being. We treat each patient with professionalism, care, and attention so you can feel like a respected patient and an informal member of the family.

If you need a dental practice to diagnose TMJ and handle your checkups and cleanings, we can provide a full range of services. We specialize in general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, preventative care, and periodontal care. Let’s work together to create a treatment plan that keeps your mouth and teeth healthy.

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I absolutely love this dental office. The staff is beyond exceptional, the dentists are great and I always feel valued.

Nikki, Glendale

As a new patient, I felt welcomed and very much cared for by the staff of AZ Family Dental. Dr. Parker explained thoroughly my dental problems that need to be addressed and were clear as to how the procedure goes. I have never felt more comfortable while being at the dentist while I was getting my procedures done. Thank you everyone for taking good care of me!

Zea P, Glendale

One of the best experiences I’ve had at a dentist! Everyone is very warm and welcoming. Dr. V and Diana explained everything throughly as they went so there were no surprises!

Sharon Rose Scataglini, Cave Creek

We are so grateful to have such a wonderful team to help care for me and my children’s dental health! My kiddos who are still quite young were relaxed and happy to sit in the chair, and it helped a lot that the dental assistants and office management were so accommodating. Dr. Vacanti, Diana and Linday are among the very best! We are grateful to you!

Alexandra Bower, Cave Creek

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TMJ Symptoms

TMJ can cause a vast number of symptoms in many parts of your body — not just your jaw. The pain and discomfort caused by TMJ also feel different for patients. Some of our patients experience stabbing pain, while others have a dull ache around the clock. A person who has TMJ may have some or all of these symptoms:

  • Migraines and headaches
  • Facial pain
  • Ear pain
  • Congestion
  • Jaw pain
  • Tooth pain
  • Neck and back pain
  • Numbness of the arms, hands, and fingers
  • Shoulder pain
  • Back pain

The issues caused by your TMJ disorder depend on the cause of your condition. For example, if you have a TMJ disorder due to poor posture, you may also experience neck and back pain. A misaligned jaw can put pressure on your teeth, creating sensitivity and pain. The dentists at AZ Family Dental can help you identify why you have TMJ disorder and find the right treatment.

At-Home TMJ Treatment Recommendations

During your appointment at our office, the dentist will examine your jaw, checking for discomfort, clicking, and limited motion. If they determine that you have a TMJ disorder, they will first focus on the pain. In most situations, they will recommend home remedies and lifestyle changes. Many cases of TMJ have causes you can address by changing your habits. You and the dentist may try these strategies:

  • Stop chewing gum or other chewy foods
  • Avoid taking large bites of food that extend the jaw
  • Correct your posture to relieve pressure on your jaw
  • Perform gentle jaw stretches that relax and strengthen the muscle
  • Practice relaxation techniques that decrease jaw tension
  • Apply ice or a warm, damp washcloth to the affected area

With home remedies and new habits, many patients can find relief from their TMJ disorder. If you have severe symptoms or they persist after trying these treatments, you may need another option.

TMJ Treatment Options Available From AZ Family Dental

When you still have symptoms after trying home remedies, the dentist will look for ways to put less pressure on your TMJ. You may receive one of the following treatments:

  • Bite correction: The dentist can provide a variety of treatments that realign your jaw and relieve the tension in your TMJ. Bridges and crowns address uneven sections of your bite. The dentist can also refer you to an orthodontist who can provide braces or a retainer that changes your bite shape.
  • Mouth guard: When you have TMJ as a result of teeth grinding, the dentist might make you a custom mouth guard or splint. You can wear it at night for teeth grinding that happens in your sleep.
  • TMJ splint: A TMJ splint combines the benefits of bite realignment and a mouth guard. You wear it throughout the day to change the shape of your bite and protect your jaw from grinding.

The dental professionals at AZ Family Dental will help you find a treatment that suits your symptoms and lifestyle.

How Can I Find out If I Have a TMJ Disorder?

Do you think you have a TMJ disorder? We welcome patients in the greater Phoenix area to schedule an appointment today. You can use our convenient online form to specify a date and time that works for you. Once we receive your request, we will get in touch to make an appointment that fits everyone’s schedule. Interested patients may also call us at 623-939-6574.