Preventive Dentistry
Jaw Pain Relief
Around 10 million Americans have a TMJ disorder. If you have this condition, you may be experiencing uncomfortable symptoms such as chronic pain in your jaws. Dr. Nawrocki can determine what’s causing your problem and help you find a way to deal with the discomfort. Reach out today if you would like more information about TMJ treatment available at our office.
Find Lasting Relief
The term TMJ disorder can refer to a number of issues involving the temporomandibular joint, which is responsible for movement of the jawbone. The TMJ gives your jaw mobility for everyday activities like speaking and chewing. If it becomes overworked or injured, a TMJ disorder may occur. This condition is more common in women than men and often affects individuals between 20 and 40 years old.
Pain that occurs in your jaw or the muscles on the side of your face could indicate a TMJ disorder. Additional symptoms may include:
When you visit our office, please describe all of the symptoms you’ve noticed. The more information we have, the easier it is to narrow down the underlying source of your pain.
Our team will personalize your TMJ treatment plan according to the specifics of your situation. We’ll walk you through the different kinds of treatments we offer, then recommend the one that we feel is the best choice for your specific case.
Personalized Treatment
A deprogrammer is a removable retainer-like appliance that allows us to evaluate the stability of your bite. Every time you chew or swallow, you must adapt your jaw to the best fit for your teeth. If this fit is not ideal for your jaw joint and muscles, you may experience facial pain as well as worn, broken, or loose teeth.
The deprogrammer prevents teeth from interlocking and reinforcing the position of your existing bite. This allows your lower jaw to relax into a more comfortable position so we can discuss treatment options for maintaining that bite.
An uneven bite can stop your jaw muscles from fully relaxing and put excessive strain on the TMJs. With an occlusal adjustment, we can make minor changes to your teeth to help them fit together properly. The goal is even contact between the upper and lower arches of teeth when the mouth is closed, a major step toward relief from your TMJ disorder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Considering TMJ treatment? These answers explain what treatment can involve. If you need other information, feel free to call our office.
TMJ treatment varies in length depending on the procedure. Orthodontic treatment may take about 18 months, while an occlusal adjustment may take one, two, or three appointments spaced weeks apart. Your dentist can assess your situation and offer an informed estimate.
Occlusal adjustment itself does not hurt. If needed, your dentist may numb your mouth beforehand. By removing bits of enamel to relieve pressure on the jaw joints, the adjustment is intended to reduce pre-existing discomfort.
BOTOX can be a safe treatment when performed by qualified specialists using appropriate doses. Risks and side effects are usually minor and temporary, such as slight bruising, headache, mild nausea, or flu-like symptoms.
TMJ issues rarely disappear on their own, so it is best to see a professional. BOTOX can provide temporary relief, while deprogrammers and occlusal adjustment can address underlying jaw tension, misalignment, and other causes of TMD.
Some insurance plans provide partial coverage. Depending on treatment, it could fall under dental or medical insurance. Review your benefits and contact your insurance provider with questions before committing to treatment.
Deprogrammers and occlusal adjustments are considered safe, conservative ways to relieve TMJ disorder when treatment is carried out by a qualified professional.
Yes. Surgery is generally a last resort because it produces lasting changes to the jaw and carries risk. Less invasive treatments are often enough to provide lasting relief.
Cost varies by geographic location, the type of treatment needed, and the severity of your symptoms. Once we understand what is causing the disorder, we can recommend treatment and give you a clearer idea of the expected cost.
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From the moment we contacted them for information - we knew they could provide quality care! Abie is excited to begin the process for dental implants! We are both new to Florida dental care and are very impressed with Andrew Nawrocki & his wonderful staff! I highly recommend this group if you are thinking about improving your dental health! We are looking forward to getting a temporary set of upper teeth next month!
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Dr. Nawrocki being who I chose to take care of my dental needs. He is the first Dentist I interviewed that sat down with me and went through what my dental needs are - just very personable and professional. The staff is also awesome and are extremely professional and helpful!! Just a really great place that I would highly recommend!!
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