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Looking for TMJ treatment in Sunnyvale? Melko Dental Can Help!

Don’t Live with Ongoing Jaw Pain Any Longer

If you’re suffering with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), you’re far from alone. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states that over 10 million Americans suffer from jaw pain, headaches, neck stiffness, and tingling in arms due to TMJ. If you suspect your jaw is out of alignment, Melko Dental can offer you the relief you need to take control of your health. Jaw pain in Sunnyvale doesn’t have to be permanent, especially when you have the right partner on your side.

TMJ treatment is available here at Melko Dental. We have helped many previous patients who struggled with TMJ issues, and it’s always rewarding to see their pain relieved and their quality of life improved.

What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge connecting your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull, which are in front of each ear. It allows you to move your jaw up and down and side to side, so you can talk, chew, and yawn. Problems with the jaw and the muscles in the face that control it are known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

Common symptoms of TMD include:

  • Jaw pain or tenderness: This can be a constant ache or a sharp sensation, often worsening when speaking or eating.
  • Pain in one or both of the temporomandibular joints: The discomfort might be fleeting or persist for extended periods.
  • Aching pain around the ear: This can sometimes be mistaken for ear problems, including infections.
  • Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing: This makes everyday activities uncomfortable and can even impact nutritional habits.
  • Aching facial pain: This can radiate, affecting large areas of the face.
  • Locking of the joint: This results in difficulty or discomfort when trying to open or close the mouth.
  • Clicking sound or grating sensation: These might occur when opening the mouth or chewing, but if there’s no pain associated with the sound, it’s typically not a concern.

TMJ Treatment Options

At Melko Dental, we don’t take a one-size-fits-all treatment approach for addressing TMJ pain. Dr. Melko will conduct a thorough consultation with you, utilizing a panoramic x-ray to determine the underlying cause, and work with you to develop the ideal treatment for your needs.

Bioesthetic Dentistry Approach

Bioesthetic dentistry is a holistic approach that emphasizes the harmony between appearance and functionality. In relation to TMJ disorders, it underscores the alignment and relationship of the teeth, jaw, and muscles, aiming for both optimal function and aesthetic appearance.

  • Orthotic Therapy: This therapy involves the use of custom-made orthotic devices, designed specifically for the patient’s oral structure. These devices aid in stabilizing the bite and ensuring that the muscles are relaxed, thereby providing relief from TMJ symptoms.
  • Restorative Dentistry: Over time, teeth can experience wear, misalignment, or damage, which can exacerbate TMJ symptoms. Restorative procedures like crowns, bridges, or veneers can address these issues, bringing the bite back into harmony.
  • Orthodontics: This is more than just straightening teeth. In the context of TMJ disorders, orthodontics can realign teeth to an optimal position, which facilitates better jaw function and reduces strain on the TMJ.

Aligning the Jaw into Centric Relation

Centric relation (CR) is a key concept in addressing TMJ disorders. It refers to the position where the mandible (lower jaw) and the maxilla (upper jaw) are in their most stable and naturally aligned position. This is where the muscles are most relaxed.

  • Adjustment of Bite: Over time, our bite can shift due to factors like tooth loss, grinding, or trauma. By adjusting or reshaping the biting surfaces of teeth, we can allow the jaw to close in its natural position, alleviating strain on the TMJ.
  • Use of Splints or Night Guards: These are specially designed devices that help guide the jaw into a relaxed and optimal position, especially during sleep when unconscious habits like grinding can occur.
  • Physical Therapy: A combination of exercises and treatments can assist in relaxing the jaw muscles, improving mobility, and fostering proper jaw function.

At Melko Dental, we’re not just about managing your jaw pain—we’re dedicated to helping you live your life fully, without any hindrance from TMJ disorder. We understand that each patient’s condition is unique, and that’s why we tailor our treatment plans to suit your individual needs.

Don’t let jaw pain and headaches derail your day. Schedule your consultation with Melko Dental today and start your journey to a pain-free life. Remember, enduring constant discomfort is no longer necessary, especially with the right help at your side.