Complete TMJ Care
Does chewing cause you pain? Do you hear popping noises when you open and close your mouth? If so, you may be suffering from TMJ Disorder (TMD). Additional symptoms of TMD include earaches, headaches, and swelling of the jaw.
Dr. William Gioia has considerable experience working with TMD patients. In fact, he’s completed extended TMJ training programs at both the University of Washington and the University of San Diego.
Dr. Gioia will find the source of your pain and create a treatment plan to relieve it.
What is TMJ Disorder
You have two temporomandibular joints (TMJ) — they’re located right below your ears. This remarkably complex joint allows your jaw to move in several directions.
TMD is a condition that causes pain in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. It can affect you in a number of ways, making simple activities such as eating, speaking, and yawning painful or difficult.
Teeth Grinding and TMD
TMD is frequently related to an underlying condition called bruxism, which is also referred to as teeth grinding or clenching. This can occur both during the day and also at night when you’re sleeping.
Bruxism can be triggered by several factors, including:
- Stress
- An abnormal bite
- Crooked or missing teeth
- A sleep disorder
If you’re noticing frequent headaches or jaw pain, you may be suffering from bruxism.
Effective Treatment for Bruxism
Aside from the pain it triggers, bruxism can also damage your teeth, leaving them chipped or worn down. That’s why it’s essential to seek treatment for your condition and avoid permanent damage to your teeth and jaw.
A mandibular advancement device is an effective treatment for bruxism. Commonly referred to as a nightguard, it prevents grinding and clenching while you sleep.
Dr. Gioia features the nociceptive trigeminal inhibition tension suppression system (NIT-TSS). This device is customized to fit comfortably inside your mouth. It’s worn over the front four teeth to relax the muscles and prevent your molars from touching each other.
Dr. Gioia’s TMD Treatment Tips
After Dr. Gioia evaluates your TMJ, he’ll design your treatment plan. He may recommend some easy steps to reduce the pressure on your TMJ, such as altering your diet, habits, or sleeping patterns. These include:
- Eat softer foods
- Avoid chewing gum
- Sleep on your back
- Find ways to relieve stress, such as yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises
- Exercise regularly
- Apply ice to the sore area
Complete TMJ Disorder Therapy
TMD can cause severe jaw pain and even make moving your jaw unbearable at times. In order to determine the best course of treatment for you, Dr. Gioia will evaluate the joint using our CBCT “cone-beam” tomography. This will help us pinpoint the source of your pain and determine the best way to relieve your symptoms.
Every patient is unique, and that’s why Dr. Gioia features a variety of treatment methods for TMD. While some patients find relief using our self-treatment tips, others will require more extensive care.
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Gioia Today
TMD is a serious condition that dramatically impacts your daily life. Call (602) 864-1984 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Gioia. Relief is closer than you think.