TMJ/TMD Therapy – Rexburg, ID

Why Choose Cornerstone Family Dental for TMJ/TMD Therapy?

• In-House Treatment Options Available
• Experienced Team of Dentists
• State-of-the-Art Technology

Types of TMJ Disorder

There are 3 different types of TMJ disorder:

Muscle Disorders

If you’re experiencing pain in the muscles surrounding your jaw joint, it could be the muscles themselves causing the issue. This type of TMJ is by far the most common and you should contact the dentist near you for treatment!

Joint-Derangement Disorders

Compared to the previous type, joint-derangement disorder is a structural problem, not a muscular one. Injury or wear and tear from routine teeth grinding can eventually cause this condition. It’s also possible to experience issues from dislocation/displacement of the articular disc or severe malocclusion.

Degenerative/Inflammatory Joint Disorders

When a joint becomes old or overused, it can begin to degenerate or inflame. While this problem could also be osteoarthritis, it could be rheumatoid arthritis or a perforated TMJ disc. It’s also important to remember that these disorders can happen simultaneously.

Causes of TMJ Disorder

It’s often unknown what truly causes TMJ disorder, however your problems with jaw muscles or jaw joints may result from one or more of these factors:

• Tooth loss
• A bad “bite”
• Physical injury to the head or neck
• Grinding or clenching teeth (bruxism)
• Jaw misalignment
• Arthritis
• Consistent stress

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

The most common symptom of TMJ disorder is pain—whether it’s constant or intermittent. You may also notice warning signs like:

• Difficulty chewing
• Chronic pain in or near your ear
• Pain in the face, jaw, neck, or shoulders
• Difficulty opening your mouth all the way
• Uncomfortable bite
• Swelling in your face
• Regular head or neck aches
• Popping or clicking sounds when opening your mouth

Treatment for TMJ Disorder

No two cases are the same, which is why our treatment options vary. The most common treatment we have to offer is custom-made oral appliances which are worn to reposition the jaw and take force off of your joints/muscles. We may also recommend a nightguard that protects your teeth from grinding while relieving your jaw of pressure. Additionally, stress-relieving activities and a modified diet can help ease your symptoms.