TMD & TMJ Treatment
TMJ Treatment in Salt Lake City
Do you suffer from jaw pain or another TMD symptom? If so, you may be wondering what to do next. Before making rash decisions about treatment options, it is crucial to understand the basics of TMJ and set aside time to visit our family dentists, Dr. Todd Petersen and Dr. Tad Tholstrom, at Amigos Dental Care.
What is the TMJ, and what are the signs of TMD?
Located on either side of the head, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a crucial hinge-like connector between your jawbone and skull. Unsuspected pain or clicking in this area can be symptomatic of a more severe condition known as Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD).
You may suffer from TMJ disorder if you’ve been experiencing a sore jaw, frequent headaches, or difficulty chewing. This condition directly affects this tiny yet hardworking joint and can cause discomfort in the surrounding muscles and tissues. Other signs of TMJ disorder include clicking or popping noises when you open and close your mouth, ear pain or pressure, and a feeling of your jaw locking or getting stuck.
Our Salt Lake City Dentists Relieve TMD with Minimally-Invasive Treatment
Don’t suffer in silence! If you’re experiencing any of these TMJ symptoms, it’s important to speak with the Amigos Dental Care team to find a treatment plan that works for you:
Our dental team thoroughly assesses your pearly whites, gums, and jaw for any tell-tale symptoms of TMJ disorder.
TMJ nightguards are a popular solution for those who suffer from jaw pain or teeth grinding at night. But how do they work? Think of a nightguard as a protective shield for your teeth and jaw. It creates a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, allowing them to glide smoothly over each other without causing excessive pressure, which can lead to pain and damage. Additionally, the nightguard can help to relax your jaw muscles, reducing the likelihood of teeth clenching and grinding.
In only two visits, Dr. Petersen and Dr. Tholstrom have perfected the art of crafting custom-fitted night guards. Our experienced team takes precise measurements during your first appointment to guarantee a superior fit.
Your scans are sent to our trusted dental laboratory for fabrication.
In a matter of weeks, we’ll call you in for a final fitting to ensure that your new night guard fits snugly on your smile.
Knowing how to properly care for your dental night guard helps keep it in mint condition and maintain its effectiveness. First and foremost, keep your night guard clean. Every morning, rinse it with water and gently brush it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and an antibacterial soap. Also, store your night guard in a clean case, away from hot temperatures or direct sunlight. Avoid using hot water, harsh chemicals, or alcohol-based mouthwashes to clean your night guard, as they may damage the material. While wearing and caring for a nightguard may take some getting used to, its benefits for both short-term pain relief and long-term prevention of dental issues make it a worthwhile investment.
Our Salt Lake City Dentists Can Expertly Diagnose and Treat TMD
With a little effort, you can return to enjoying life without the pain of TMJ disorder holding you back. TMD and TMJ treatment can help to significantly reduce or eliminate your discomfort, allowing you to return to normal life activities with increased confidence and comfort. Call (385) 295-1601 or request an appointment online for an answer to TMJ pain.
