TMJ Treatment in Little Rock
Kevin G. Jones, DDS provides TMJ Treatment in Little Rock, AR. Call 501-225-4555 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect each side of the jaw to your skull. These joints act as sliding hinges when you open or close your mouth while speaking, yawning, or eating. You probably don't think about these joints much if they're working properly, but when they cause chronic pain, it's difficult to think about anything else.
Chronic TMJ pain is referred to as TMJ disorder, or TMD for short. TMD is difficult to diagnose since the symptoms aren't always straightforward. While jaw pain is common, TMD can also cause migraines, ear discomfort, neck pain, and a number of other issues. Many people have no idea that their chronic headaches are actually caused by dysfunction in their jaw joints.
Signs You May Need TMJ Treatment
● Jaw pain
● Facial tenderness
● Migraines and other headaches
● Pain or feelings of fullness in or around the ears
● Jaw tightness
● Difficulty eating
● Clicking or popping sounds when eating or opening the mouth
● Locking of the jaw
Why Choose Kevin G. Jones, DDS?
Dr. Jones specializes in treating TMJ disorder, as he has received advanced training and education in the muscles and joints of the head and neck. He can diagnose the underlying cause of your TMJ pain and create an appropriate treatment plan, including designing a high-quality custom nightguard to relax your jaw muscles and prevent jaw clenching or teeth grinding.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Treatment
How much does TMJ treatment cost?
When it comes to the cost of TMJ treatment, fees vary depending upon the nature of your care and whether surgical or nonsurgical treatment is appropriate. Dr. Jones will do a thorough examination of the muscles and joints involved with TMJ problems and help you determine the right treatment for you. Most dental insurance carriers do not cover TMJ services, but some do.
What will happen if TMJ disease is not treated?
Without treatment, symptoms of TMD can worsen, leading to severe pain that may require medical or surgical intervention. Patients with untreated TMD may experience debilitating neck or jaw pain, headaches, malnutrition, and depression.
What is the best treatment for TMJ?
Over-the-counter pain relievers may help relieve TMD pain. Muscle relaxers and other classes of medications may be prescribed if pain is severe. Doctors may also recommend mouth guards to prevent teeth grinding and jaw clenching, allowing the muscles to relax and the discomfort to diminish or go away.
What kind of doctor do I see for TMJ pain?
Many dentists have had extensive training to diagnose and treat TMJ pain. Ask your dentist if he has the training to diagnose and treat your problem. For some advanced TMJ problems and for dentists who have not undergone training to diagnose and treat TMJ pain, you may be referred to another doctor or specialist. Dr. Jones has spent most of his career studying the muscles and joints of the head and neck in order to be able to treat a wide range of patients with problems related to their TMJ.
Is TMJ treated by a doctor or oral and maxillofacial surgeon?
You should first talk about your TMJ symptoms with your general dentist. If your dentist has been trained to evaluate your muscles, joints and occlusion, he/she can help you diagnose your problem and make recommendations to help alleviate your symptoms. In severe or advanced cases, an oral surgeon specializing in TMJ problems may be consulted. The dentist or surgeon may recommend that a CBCT of the joints be made as well as an MRI.
Can TMJ change your face?
TMJ can contribute to changes in your face if your facial muscles are overworked and become enlarged. The natural aesthetics of the face can also be altered if teeth shift, if bone loss occurs, or if the bite (occlusion) and jaws are not aligned properly.