End Nagging Jaw Pain With TMJ Treatment in Georgetown
Unless you’ve studied anatomy, you may not even realize you have a temporomandibular joint (TMJ). It works like a sliding hinge, connecting your skull to your jawbone. It’s important, given that you can’t chew without it! It can also cause persistent jaw pain. If this is the case for you, TMJ treatment in Georgetown can help.
Our treatment will:
- Give you relief from jaw and facial pain
- Keep pain from spreading to your neck, shoulders, and other areas
- Allow you to enjoy normal range of motion with your jaw again
- Protect your teeth from the effects of grinding, a habit often associated with a TMJ disorder
If your jaw hurts all the time, you could have a TMJ disorder (TMD). Call us at 843-492-5026 to schedule an appointment with Dr. John Miller. He’ll evaluate you for TMD and, if needed, create a custom oral appliance to relieve your pain. With our in-house 3D CT scanner, you will receive crisp, detailed images of your TMJ that allow us to diagnose you properly.
Relieve TMJ Pain With an Oral Appliance
If we diagnose a TMD, Dr. Miller will design a custom oral appliance for you that will relieve tension on your jaw and let it heal. Made using impressions of your teeth, it will fit you perfectly. If you grind your teeth, a mouthguard will also stop this destructive behavior. Over time, grinding can crack or even break your teeth. Dr. Miller will look for evidence of this during your dental exams so he can address it before you need a repair with restorative dentistry.
In addition, we may suggest:
- Taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain reliever, like ibuprofen
- Applying ice packs
- Practicing stress-reduction techniques
See Us ASAP to Get Protect Your Smile
Diagnosing a TMD can be tricky. Dr. Miller will discuss your symptoms with you, review your medical and dental histories, and examine your head, neck, and jaw. You should consult us ASAP if you notice these symptoms:
- A stiff jaw
- Radiating pain in your jaw, face, or neck
- Difficulty moving your jaw or a locked jaw
- Popping, grinding, or clicking when you open or close your mouth
- A change in how your upper and lower teeth fit together
For TMJ treatment in Georgetown, call 843-492-5026. You can also schedule online.