TMJ Questions
I have chronic headaches. Can you help?
Chronic headaches may be a symptom of a misaligned bite, bruxism (grinding), or TMJ disorder. Dr. Hahn will carefully examine your occlusion (bite), jaw, head, and neck to determine the underlying causes of your pain. Oftentimes, we can correct the problem with a custom nightguard. Call our office if you have more questions about headache relief with non-surgical therapies.
What is neuromuscular dentistry?
Neuromuscular dentistry addresses the complex relationship between the joints, muscles, ligaments, and nerves involved in occlusion (bite) and chewing. A neuromuscular dentist focuses on correcting the misalignment of the jaw and TMJ disorder to restore proper function.
What causes TMJ disorder?
While the exact cause of TMJ disorder is unknown, many doctors contribute TMJ disorder to increased stress, dislocation of the jaw, or auto-immune disease. Other factors include genetics, hormones, and infection.
Why is TMJ disorder so serious?
Even if your condition is mild, you should still seek treatment. A mild case of TMJ disorder will get worse over time, and you could end up with permanent nerve damage in addition to the headaches, facial pain, dizziness, and tooth sensitivity, that often result from TMJ disorder. Teeth grinding, a common symptom of TMJ disorder, can lead to cracked, broken, or worn teeth and, eventually, tooth loss.
What are my treatment options?
For most patients, treatment is fairly straightforward. Dr. Hahn will diagnose your case and determine the extent of damage. Relief may be as simple as wearing an oral appliance, similar to an athletic mouthguard but thinner, at night for three months. Other treatments include bite rebuilding and muscle relaxing exercise. If you think you might have TMJ disorder, call to reserve an assessment with Dr. Hahn.