TMJ Treatment
A misaligned bite and other issues can strain your temporomandibular joints (TMJs), resulting in headaches, jaw pain, and other symptoms.
Our dentists in Boston, MA, offer TMJ treatment to provide the lasting relief you deserve.
Find out how Boston Prosthodontics can treat TMJ disorder to relieve your pain and improve your quality of life...
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint acts like a sliding hinge, joining your jawbone and your skull. TMJ disorder (sometimes called TMD) is characterized by inflammation of the tissues that make up these joints. This can be due to an imbalanced bite, arthritis, an injury, or other causes. Boston Prosthodontics is here to help if you are suffering with symptoms of this condition.
"Their standards should set the bar for all medical service offices!"
Dave Walsh
2019
Excellent dental work and great staff. Dr. Malament is top notch for the simplest to the most complex procedures.
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Ken F
2019
Ken Malament is to prosthodontics as Picasso is to modern art. Ken and the entire office demonstrate good judgement, patient respect, and practice excellence. Their standards should set the bar for all medical service offices!
View On GoogleThe Importance of a Balanced Bite
TMJ Treatments
The first step in successfully treating TMJ is to find the underlying cause. Boston Prosthodontics uses sophisticated, state-of-the-art technology to assess your teeth and jaws for precise diagnosis and treatment. If we believe an imbalanced bite is the cause, we offer several methods of treating TMD:
Splint or Mouth Guard:
The most common corrective treatment for TMJ is a specially designed mouthguard that balances your bite. The device acts as a splint to keep your teeth apart and prevent clenching and grinding. The guard can reduce pain and discomfort as it relieves pressure and strain on your temporomandibular joints. It is usually worn overnight.
Restorative Dentistry
Patients whose TMJ symptoms include bruxism might find the condition has caused their teeth to become damaged or worn. The dentist may recommend custom crowns, bridges, or other dental procedures to not only repair these teeth, but also achieve proper balance between the top and bottom dental arches. We provide high-quality restorations that fit properly and look entirely natural.
Orthodontics
Some patients may require orthodontics to correct significant jaw alignment issues. We offer Invisalign®, a discreet and simplified orthodontic solution that many adults find to be an excellent fit for their lifestyles.
If our dentists cannot identify the cause of your TMD, or if they believe you require a treatment that they cannot provide, they can refer you to a specialist.
Alleviate Symptoms
With Lifestyle Changes
Our Boston, MA, dentists can teach you techniques to manage your TMD and suggest some changes you can make in your daily routine to alleviate symptoms. These can include:
We can recommend a number of stretches and massages to help reduce the amount of tension in your temporomandibular joints. Apply hot or cold compresses as directed to relax jaw muscles.
TMJ disorders can flare up during stressful times, so it is important to recognize your anxiety and find ways to manage stress levels. Practicing yoga or meditation can help relieve tension.
You can minimize TMJ strain by eating smaller bites, choosing softer food, and staying away from sticky and chewy foods.
