Martin Williams, DDS. Blog

How can an Oral Appliance Help My TMJ Problems?

The temporomandibular joint is the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. It's a hinge-like joint that opens and closes when the attached muscles are used, and it's what allows us to use our mouths for chewing and other functions. Disorders that affect this joint can be extremely painful, but an oral appliance from your Green Bay dentist may be able to relieve the symptoms.

What Causes Temporomandibular Joint Disorders?

Temporomandibular joint disorders, or TMD, can develop for a variety of reasons. A traumatic injury such as a blow to the jaw, whiplash injury, or dislocation, are common TMD causes. Some other risk factors include bone diseases such as arthritis, and tension or stress that causes reactions such as jaw clenching and tooth grinding. These reactions put stress on the joint and contribute to the development of TMD.

TMD Symptoms

People with TMD can also have symptoms such as headaches, toothaches, and earaches, and might have problems with their bite too. Problems with the temporomandibular joint can cause some very painful symptoms. The pain typically starts in the joint itself, but can extend to the face, neck, and shoulders, and is often worse when chewing or speaking.

How can an Oral Appliance Treat TMD?

There are several things you can do at home to ease pain caused by TMD. For example, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen can help with the pain, and a diet of mostly soft foods helps prevent the additional discomfort of chewing. However, these things don't get to the root of what's causing TMJ pain — they just address the symptoms. In the long term, a more effective strategy is to see your dentist for advice.

Your dentist can help because there are some oral appliances and other dental treatments that can help ease the symptoms much more effectively than pain medication.

One common example of an effective oral appliance is the splint. This is worn in the mouth when you're asleep. It prevents you from clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth, so if these issues are the cause of your TMD, this oral appliance is an effective treatment. It prevents you from damaging your teeth or jaw if you do clinch your teeth.

Get Help for TMD Today

If you're experiencing TMJ pain you know how much it can affect your everyday life, but there is help available. Call Dr. Williams at Sierra Dental, your Green Bay dentist, today to find out what we can do for you.