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Livingston Dentists Answer Your Questions About TMJ Disorder

by | Sep 4, 2013 | Ready to smile

Many people experience a popping or clicking sensation in their jaw. While this may not seem like a big deal, a popping in the jaw could be a symptom of TMJ disorder. Also known as TMD, this dental issue may lead to a number of painful symptoms. At The Silverstrom Group, we can diagnose the cause and severity of TMD and recommend treatment. In today’s blog, your Livingston dentists, Dr. David Silverstrom and Dr. Gary Silverstrom, explain the symptoms of TMJ and recommend a minimally invasive and comfortable treatment option.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMD
Question: What causes TMJ disorder?
Answer: TMD develops when strain is placed on the jaw joints. Bite misalignment, injury, and teeth grinding all place inordinate stress on the joints, leading to TMJ disorder.
Question: How do I know if I suffer from TMJ disorder?
Answer: There are a number of signs to watch for, including persistent headaches, jaw pain, earaches, neck pain, facial pain, and shoulder pain. For patients who grind their teeth, toothaches and tooth sensitivity may accompany these symptoms.
Question: What happens if I don’t seek treatment for TMD?
Answer: Over time, the severity of the symptoms may increase. Soon, yawning, eating, and even speaking can become difficult.
Question: Can an oral appliance relieve TMJ symptoms?
Answer: Yes. Your Livingston NJ general dentists may recommend an intraoral device to address your TMD symptoms. Similar to a night guard, this device repositions the jaw to ease pressure from misalignment. For patients who grind their teeth, the appliance prevents the upper and lower teeth from touching. In many cases, patients report a significant reduction in TMJ symptoms after using an oral appliance.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Livingston NJ General Dentists
Does your jaw pop or click? If so, talk to your Livingston NJ general dentists about our treatment options for TMJ disorder. Dr. David or Gary Silverstrom offer our patients the latest in general, cosmetic, and restorative treatment. Contact The Silverstrom Group in Livingston, New Jersey by calling (973) 797-9345. The Silverstrom Group is located at 580 South Livingston Avenue, Livingston, New Jersey.