If your jaw is painful, and pops or grinds whenever you open your mouth, you should seek treatment. A painful, popping, grinding jaw is one of the main symptoms of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder, and if left alone, will usually only get worse, not better.
Fremont TMJ dentist Dr. Jorge Montane has experience diagnosing and treating TMJ disorder. His treatment options go straight for the root of your problems, providing a long-term solution rather than merely treating the superficial symptoms for short-term relief.
If you think you may be experiencing TMJ disorder, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Montane at 510-795-0444 today to schedule your complimentary consultation.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
The symptoms of TMJ disorder can vary widely. This can make it difficult to diagnose by someone not intimately familiar with the condition. It may not seem to make sense to visit a dentist for your chronic headaches and neck pain, but in fact a dentist is the best person to see for a TMJ diagnosis.
TMJ symptoms can include:
- Chronic headaches or migraines
- Neck, jaw, and back pain
- Popping, grinding, or clicking in the jaw
- Ringing in the ears
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- Lockjaw
If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, visit Dr. Montane as soon as possible for a thorough examination and diagnosis. He utilizes sophisticated equipment and draws on years of experience recognizing TMJ in patients in order to accurately diagnose you and prescribe an effective treatment plan.
Treating TMJ Disorder
Treatment for TMJ disorder varies from person to person, depending on what the root cause of the condition is. Treatment options can include:
- Restorative dental work
- Orthodontic treatment
- Jaw splint
- Surgery
The most common culprit for TMJ disorder is a misaligned bite. If Dr. Montane can correct your bite through restorative dental work or orthodontic treatment, he will opt for this treatment option. He may also suggest an oral appliance that holds the jaw in place. Surgery is a last resort, and is not typically recommended.
Restorative dental work to align your jaw may include:
- Dental implants
- Crowns
- Bridges
Orthodontic work may also be necessary, if crooked or misaligned teeth are causing your jaw’s misalignment.
Dental work and oral appliances will help address the root cause of your TMJ, but in the meantime, there are steps you can take for short-term pain relief. These can include:
- Over-the-counter painkillers
- Warm compress
- Jaw stretching exercises
- Eating soft foods
We know that living with TMJ disorder can be painful, but it is our hope to find a long-term treatment plan that helps raise your overall quality of life. Chronic pain is something no one should have to deal with, especially when there are effective treatment options available.
Schedule Your TMJ Consultation
If you have been suffering with a popping, painful jaw or other TMJ disorder symptoms, call Dr. Jorge Montane at 510-795-0444 today to schedule your initial consultation. We serve patients in Fremont, Union City, Newark, and other nearby parts of the Bay Area.
