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TMD / TMJ Therapy

Enjoy Life Fully After Relieving Jaw Discomfort

Your temporomandibular joints (also known as the TMJ) may be small parts of the body, but they have an essential function – connecting the lower jaw to the skull, which allows you to eat, speak, and more. Unfortunately, this area can also be vulnerable to dysfunction and strain, leading to uncomfortable symptoms. If you’re ready to overcome TMJ disorder (also known as TMD), don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Lloyd here at Indigo Dental for experienced and compassionate assistance. Contact our Daytona Beach, FL office to schedule an appointment!

What Causes Neck Discomfort, Stiffness and Jaw Soreness?

Grimacing man in dental chair holding jawTMJ disorder can be caused by many different sources, including the presence of bruxism (teeth grinding), arthritis, or a traumatic jaw injury. Whatever the reason is, patients are left with many troublesome symptoms like the ones above, as well as difficulty opening and closing the mouth, constant discomfort that feels like an earache, and joints that constantly lock and pop. If you’re experiencing any of these troublesome symptoms, please contact us as soon as possible.  We can schedule you for a consultation as soon as possible so that can we assess your condition and confirm whether or not TMJ disorder is the source of your troubles. Once we’ve done so, we can start arranging the right kind of treatment for your unique case.

Do I Need an Occlusal Adjustment?

X-ray of skullOcclusal (bite) adjustment may be necessary if a misaligned bite is what’s causing your TMJ disorder. This process consists of altering certain teeth in order to even out the areas where your teeth meet and create a more harmonious arrangement. For instance, if certain teeth are bearing the brunt of your bite’s pressure, this treatment can redistribute this pressure in a healthier and more comfortable fashion. Patient comfort is our top priority at Indigo Dental of Daytona Beach!

What Are Occlusal Splints?

Custom occlusal splintsOcclusal splints are the most common TMJ therapy treatment recommended. These oral appliances are designed to help support your jaw in a way that allows it function properly once more. There are several different kinds of splints available in the dental field today – for instance, some merely prevent teeth grinding while others are designed to lessen the fatigue that certain jaw muscles are experiencing and control spasms. Some occlusal splints are meant to be worn at night, while others need to be worn all the time for maximum effectiveness. Over time, our team’s goal is for your custom-made occlusal splint to direct the jaw joints into their ideal position and permanently relieve the symptoms you’ve been experiencing. Just imagine – you can return to living life to the fullest without worrying about jaw discomfort!

TMJ Treatment FAQs

X-ray of skullYou can stop your jaw pain and improve your quality of life with TMJ treatment in Daytona Beach. Dr. Lloyd will create a personalized plan to get relief from your TMD. Don't worry if you have a few questions because he will explain everything during your consultation. In the meantime, here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about TMJ treatment.

Can TMJ Be Treated Without Surgery?

Surgery for TMJ is used as a last resort. Most patients can benefit from far less invasive treatments. Dr. Lloyd believes that less is more when treating TMJ because surgery requires permanent alterations to your jaw and nearby structures. Every situation differs, but many patients can get relief using at-home methods, like stress-relieving techniques or jaw-strengthening exercises. If changes at home aren't enough, Dr. Lloyd will recommend an effective treatment plan, which may include splints or occlusal adjustments.

Is TMJ Treatment Expensive?

Money should never stand in your way of benefiting from TMJ therapy. Your dentist in Daytona Beach will consider your budget when creating your treatment plan. Many factors will affect the amount you pay, but our office offers various solutions to keep our services affordable. Besides using your dental or medical insurance, we also offer financing options and have regular specials for select services. If you don't have dental insurance, don't worry because we offer in-house dental plans. After creating a strategy to stop your jaw pain, a member of our team will review your estimate and explain the fees, so you'll know exactly what you'll have to pay before committing to anything. No matter the amount you pay, a life without pain is truly priceless.

How Long Does It Take for a TMJ Splint to Work?

Occlusal splints are worn at night. It's not unusual to notice a slight improvement in your symptoms shortly after wearing the splint. While they may not disappear all at once, you will notice a gradual improvement as your jaw adjusts to its new comfortable position. It can take up to 3 or 4 months to achieve the full benefit of your treatment, but many patients notice significant results after just 6 weeks.

Does Occlusal Adjustment for TMJ Hurt?

Your teeth and jaw might be sore afterward, but Dr. Lloyd will take every step possible to ensure you're comfortable along the way. He may apply a local numbing agent to block any pain as he precisely files down the biting surfaces of your teeth that affect your bite's balance. A small dental drill will remove minimal enamel to eliminate stress and pressure from your jaw joints. Although your teeth will be permanently altered, it will not negatively impact your oral health. Dr. Lloyd may also add composite resin to your teeth to ensure the ideal balance between the upper and lower arches. If you have any tenderness after your procedure, you can manage it using an over-the-counter pain reliever. Dr. Lloyd may also recommend eating soft foods for a few days.