Dr. Ira Goldberg is an experienced restorative dentist in Succasunna, New Jersey with advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ disorders and bite problems. The temporomandibular joints connect the jaw to the skull. Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) can occur when you injure your jaw, have structural abnormalities, or are not functioning naturally due to other dental concerns. It is important to receive an evaluation and proper treatment before teeth become worn down or even lost due to symptoms like teeth clenching and grinding.
At Morris County Dental Associates, Dr. Goldberg and our professional dental care team work individually with patients to discover solutions for all types of restorative dental problems. We offer restorative dentistry treatments to patients that need them. Dr. Goldberg is a Dawson Academy Scholar and incorporates the principles of Complete Dentistry into your diagnosis and treatment planning.
This approach is comprehensive in nature and takes into consideration the function of the bite as well as the health of the teeth and gums. There is a range of risk factors and causes for the discomfort associated with a TMJ disorder. Dr. Goldberg identifies the root cause of your unique symptoms to ensure the best possible outcome.
What Are Common Signs of TMJ Disorders?
- Jaw pain
- Frequent headaches
- Facial pain
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Tooth wear or damage
- Earaches
- Neck pain
- Limited mobility in the jaw
- Shoulder pain
- Jaw clicking or popping
If you have noticed any of these signs of TMJ, call our office at 973-298-5893.
How is TMJ Pain Treated?
You can treat mild to moderate cases of temporomandibular joint disorders with at-home solutions. These home remedies can alleviate TMJ pain and symptoms that are mild enough:
- Jaw exercises
- Relaxing your facial muscles
- Sleeping on your side
- Using an ice pack in a clean cloth
- Using a heat pack
- Eating soft foods to help your jaw rest
However, patients with more moderate cases of TMJ can receive a custom oral appliance to wear at night or during stressful situations. Oral appliances are devices that act similarly to mouthguards. This appliance is often the most effective option for relieving painful TMJ symptoms.
It can fit comfortably in the mouth to realign the upper and lower jaw. An oral appliance can also hold the jaw in place while allowing the muscles and jaw joints to relax. Patients who feel TMJ pain because of continued teeth grinding often find this treatment method useful in alleviating their symptoms.
TMJ Disorder FAQs
How long does TMJ treatment take?
Average treatment for TMJ lasts between 1-3 years. Treatment includes massaging and stretching of the jaw and neck. It takes time to see the results from treatment, but you will feel the difference.
Is ice or heat better for TMJ?
Ice and heat are both good for treating TMJ issues. Ice can reduce swelling and help ease the pain. Heat can relax the muscle and relieve tension in the jaw.
What should you not do with TMJ?
Patients with TMJ should avoid chewing hard or excessively chewy foods such as gum, hard candies, caramel, etc. Patients should also avoid chewing with one side of their jaw, and clenching and grinding their teeth.
Can TMJ change your face shape?
Over time TMJ can change the shape of your face. TMJ can affect tooth alignment and can cause your jaw to become inflamed and swollen. This may appear as your jaw becomes square shaped, or swollen on one particular side.
Where do you massage TMJ?
The best place to massage TMJ is below your cheekbones and underneath your jawbone. TMJ commonly causes muscular tension in these areas. Patients may also massage their necks to help relieve TMJ pain.
Can TMJ heal itself naturally?
The best way to relieve TMJ symptoms naturally is to change your diet. Eating foods that are soft and don’t require as much chewing and jaw work will help relieve TMJ pain. The less pressure you use to chew, the less stress is put on your jaw. This will give your TMJ time to settle and for swelling to decrease.
Does your jaw pop or click? Do you suffer from chronic headaches or jaw pain?
You may have a TMJ disorder. Contact Morris County Dental Associates at 973-298-5893 or schedule an appointment online. Dr. Goldberg offers TMJ treatment in Succasunna, NJ for patients who are feeling pain in their jaw and facial muscles. He works one-on-one with patients to help determine the right solution that aligns with their specific needs.