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TMJ Treatment Chesterfield

Regain Pain-Free Jaw Function

Do you struggle with persistent jaw pain, sore facial muscles, and other symptoms? It is possible that you have TMJ disorder (TMD). This condition can have big consequences for your daily quality of life! Fortunately, Dr. Yenzer and our Chesterfield, MO, team are here to help. We are proud to provide effective and non-surgical TMJ treatment that may enable you to regain pain-free jaw function.

Why Choose Yenzer Family Dental of Chesterfield for TMJ Treatment?

  • Effective, Non-Surgical Treatment Options
  • Experienced Dentist & Team
  • Long-Lasting Relief from Jaw Pain

What Is TMJ Disorder?

Digital illustration showing the temporomandibular joint

Your temporomandibular joint, also called your TMJ, consists of the hinges just in front of your ears. They control movements of your lower jaw. The TMJ is one of the most complex joints in the human body, and when it suffers damage or becomes inflamed, it can lead to a range of symptoms that together constitute TMJ disorder.

TMD may be caused by arthritis, an uneven bite, teeth grinding and clenching, injuries, or other factors.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

Concerned woman touching the sides of her face

TMD can cause quite a few symptoms. Here are some of the most common:

  • Tenderness and pain in and around the jaw.
  • The sensation of lockjaw or limited jaw mobility.
  • Popping and clicking noises when opening and closing the mouth.
  • Earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
  • Pain in the back, neck, and shoulders.
  • Headaches and migraines.
  • Noticeable changes in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together.
  • Pain behind the eyes.

Types of TMJ Treatment

Dental team member assessing patient’s TMD symptoms

When you come to our practice for TMJ treatment, we will ask you about your symptoms, and Dr. Yenzer will perform a thorough examination. We may also take some X-rays. Once we gather adequate information, we can recommend your next steps.

We might advise you to try some home remedies, such as modifying your diet and using heat/cold therapy. Such measures can provide temporary relief. We may also advise you to invest in professional therapies, which can provide longer-lasting results.

Occlusal Splint

An occlusal splint is a custom oral device that resembles a mouthguard. You wear it at night so it places a barrier between the upper and lower teeth; it prevents teeth grinding. It can also help the jaw and facial muscles to relax, which can greatly reduce the pain and discomfort of TMD.

Equilibration/Occlusal Adjustment

TMD is sometimes the result of minor discrepancies in how the upper and lower teeth fit together. Dr. Yenzer might fix such issues by modifying your restorations (such as crowns or fillings) or carefully and minimally reshaping your enamel. This can result in a more harmonious bite and reduced strain on your TMJ.