TMJ treatment near Greer begins with thorough investigation
TMJ disorder, or TMD, is a problem that researchers believe may affect approximately 10 million people. Each person who develops dysfunction in the joints at the back of the jaw may experience unique symptoms. Early symptoms may be so mild that the condition is difficult to diagnose. The signs of TMD are widely varied, not always including symptoms like clicking in the jaw. To get the kind of TMJ treatment in Greer that will alleviate discomfort, it is important to work with an experienced care provider.
Faced with chronic pain in the jaw, one may not know who to see for treatment – a doctor or dentist. Because TMJ disorder often leads to chronic headaches, earaches, or neck pain, the care providers seen for diagnosis and treatment can vary widely. Some people will begin with their primary care physician, who may then refer them to a specialist in ear, nose, and throat, neurology, or even psychiatry. The path towards determining the problem behind chronic pain is important to getting the right kind of treatment.
Dr. Palmer is an experienced holistic dentist who offers excellent, non-invasive headache therapy and treatment for TMJ disorder. In our dental practice, we use various methods to relax stressed muscles, align the jaw, and relieve pain. The first step is determining if pain is related to the joints in the jaw. During a consultation for TMJ disorder, your physician or dentist may:
- Take a complete medical history.
- Feel the area around the jaw, ears, face, shoulders, neck, and back to determine areas of discomfort.
- Listen to the movement of the jaw as you open and close your mouth.
- Perform an examination of teeth and bite to assess alignment, signs of bruxism(teeth clenching or grinding), as well as ill-fitting dental work that may be affecting bite.
- Measure the degree of movement possible in opening and closing the mouth, noting any pain or limited range of motion.
- Discuss areas of your life that may be causing stress or anxiety, and ask about the quality of sleep you are getting.
A common treatment for TMD is a custom oral appliance which, worn at night, relieves the stress on overworked joints. Dr. Palmer sees beyond the obvious, and seeks to improve the quality of life for TMJ sufferers using a variety of techniques that surpass the standards. Using muscle stimulation, physical therapy techniques, and specific dental treatment when needed, we see dramatic improvement in the comfort level of our guests.
We can help you relieve the discomfort of TMJ disorder. Contact Palmer Distinctive Dentistry to learn more about your treatment options.
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