Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders, also known as Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD), affect the joints and muscles that connect the lower jaw to the skull. This condition can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders, as well as issues with chewing and speaking. At Dr. Vijaya Prabhu's dental offices, we offer effective treatments to relieve TMJ/TMD symptoms and restore your jaw's function.

What Is TMJ/TMD?

The temporomandibular joint acts as a hinge that allows the jaw to move smoothly when you talk, chew, or yawn. When this joint becomes misaligned or damaged, it can lead to TMD, causing:

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
• Clicking, popping, or grinding noises when moving the jaw
• Headaches, earaches, or neck pain
• Facial swelling
• Locking of the jaw

TMD can develop due to various factors, including injury, arthritis, teeth grinding (bruxism), or misalignment of the teeth and jaw.

TMJ/TMD Treatment Options

Treatment for TMJ/TMD varies depending on the severity and cause of the disorder. At Dr. Vijaya Prabhu's dental offices, we offer a range of solutions designed to relieve pain, improve jaw function, and address the underlying issues contributing to the condition.

• Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoiding hard foods, reducing stress, and practicing good posture.
• Oral Appliances: Custom-made splints or mouthguards to reduce teeth grinding.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises and massage to improve jaw mobility and ease tension.
• Botox Injections: For severe cases, Botox may help relax overactive muscles.
• Dental Treatments: Orthodontics or bite adjustments to correct misalignment.
• Surgery: Reserved for rare, severe cases that don’t respond to other treatments.

Benefits of TMJ/TMD Treatment

• Pain Relief: Alleviates chronic pain in the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders.
• Improved Jaw Function: Restores normal movement for pain-free speaking, chewing, and yawning.
• Reduced Headaches: Relieves frequent headaches or migraines often linked to TMD.
• Prevention: Treating TMJ/TMD early prevents long-term joint, teeth, and jaw damage.

Dr. Vijaya Prabhu's dental office offers a personalized approach to TMJ/TMD care, with a focus on accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve long-lasting relief from your symptoms and improving your overall quality of life.

If you're experiencing jaw pain or discomfort, contact Dr. Vijaya Prabhu's dental office today to schedule a consultation. Early treatment can prevent more serious complications and restore comfort to your daily life.