Treating TMJ: Adjusting the Bite
TMJ (medically called TMD, for disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint) can make opening and closing your mouth uncomfortable or even painful. Hardin Advanced Dentistry works with Cincinnati TMJ patients to correct the causes and alleviate the symptoms of this often debilitating condition.
Because TMJ is the result of displacement of the joint connecting the upper and lower jaw, correcting your bite might reverse the condition. Dr. Tara Hardin and Dr. Gary Hardin studied TMJ treatment at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, the foremost program on treating disorders of the jaw.
Most TMJ treatments are non-surgical, and our dentist will work with you to determine the best neuromuscular dentistry procedure for your condition.
Options for adjusting your bite include:
- Creating a custom orthotic device for your upper or lower jaw to relax the muscles and facilitate easier movement of the teeth.
- Building the teeth up with fillings, porcelain crowns and other restorative devices to make the upper and lower teeth fit together more comfortably.
- Botox to relieve jaw tension by making muscles unable to engage in the powerful, often unconscious jaw movement that produces headaches and pain.
- Physical therapy to increase range of motion; stress-reducing exercises can help loosen the joint.
- Orthodontics, including braces to shift the parts of the mouth into an ideal position gradually.
To learn more about TMJ treatments in Cincinnati, please contact Hardin Advanced Dentistry or call 513-234-5531 today.
