Do you suffer from intense, constant jaw tension or pain? Do you get frequent unexplained headaches?
If you often feel tenderness or pain in the jaw, ear and neck region, you may be suffering from a TMJ disorder. TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint disorder and refers to a wide variety of issues causing dysfunction in your bite. Woodbridge dentist Dr. Joseph Cavallo is highly trained in the diagnosis of TMJ disorders. He offers comprehensive treatment options and can offer you an individualized treatment plan to alleviate your chronic jaw pain.
TMJ is a complex disorder that requires accurate diagnostics and specialized treatment for results that last and support a comfortable bite. Symptoms vary in severity and can progress over time. Soreness in the face muscles, severe headaches stemming from the jaw region, painful ear aches, tension in the neck, shoulders and face, and popping of the jaw are all common complaints that indicate a problem in the jaw joint or bite. There is no “one size fits all” answer to what causes TMJ.
What Causes TMJ?
TMJ Risk Factors include:
Stress
Teeth Clenching
Trauma to the Jaw muscle
Poorly balanced dental work
Hormonal changes
Malocclusion – bite problems due to jaw misalignment
How Can I Treat TMJ
The first step in treating your TMJ is to schedule an appointment with Woodbridge dentist Dr. Cavallo. Dr. Cavallo. Highly trained and experienced in TMJ diagnosis and treatment, Dr. Cavallo will conduct a comprehensive TMJ evaluation. By creating a detailed dental health history, and understanding your unique TMJ symptoms, Dr. Cavallo can work with you to create an individualized treatment plan.
TMJ Evaluation
Oral Health History: Dr. Cavallo will collect your dental health history to understand any trauma or improper care you may have received
Clinical Examination: Dr. Cavallo will examine muscles in your lower jaw, using Doppler Auscultation Instrument to evaluate popping in temporomandibular joint.
Load Test: A load test will be conducted to test for any tension or tenderness and range of motion to determine joint mobility. MRI or X-Rays may be taken.
Analysis: Upper arch of teeth and jaw joints relationship will be determined. Dr. Cavallo will use registration wax to mold how the upper and lower jaw and teeth meet.
Once the evaluation is complete Dr. Cavallo will discuss what dental procedures are most suitable for you. The goal of treatment is to balance the bite.
If you think you may be suffering from TMJ disorder, schedule a visit with Dr. Cavallo in our Woodbridge dentist office.
