821 S Main St, DeForest, Wisconsin 53532
Ease the Ache, Regain Your Smile with TMJ/TMD Treatment in DeForest
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is responsible for your ability to smile, chew, and talk comfortably. When the joint is strained or damaged, it can cause a condition called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
Such problems usually manifest as jaw pain, headaches, stiffness, or even trouble opening and closing the mouth. If not treated, symptoms can get worse, disrupting normal activities and quality of life.
At Wisconsin Dental Wellness, our team provides high-quality TMJ/TMD treatment in DeForest, WI, with treatments that address both pain and function. We believe the more you know about treatment, the closer you'll be to significant relief. From stress pain to bite-related pain to pain due to trauma, our personalized care brings harmony back to your jaw and comfort back to your life.
What is TMJ/TMD?
The temporomandibular joint functions as a hinge that connects your jawbone and your skull. TMJ/TMD occurs when the joint or muscles surrounding it become inflamed or displaced. Common characteristics include:
- Anatomy: The TMJ is supported by cartilage, ligaments, and muscles that allow gliding smoothly.
- Symptoms: Clicking/popping, facial pain, ear pain, jaw pain, and headaches.
- Causes and Risk Factors: Grinding of teeth (bruxism), jaw injury, arthritis, stress, or misaligned bites.
Professional TMJ/TMD treatment in DeForest can help patients find long-lasting relief by identifying the underlying cause and creating a personalized treatment plan.
Diagnosis of TMJ/TMD at Wisconsin Dental Wellness
Accurate diagnosis is key to delivering quality care. At Wisconsin Dental Wellness, our team utilizes a complete process so that patients receive the proper TMJ/TMD treatment DeForest offers:
Our specialists carefully review your medical and dental history, listen to you about your issues, and evaluate symptoms during your daily life. We utilize advanced imaging equipment, including X-rays and digital imaging, to evaluate the joint and surrounding tissues. Bite analysis and jaw motion analysis also provide valuable information.
Along with imaging, we evaluate muscle function, joint crunches and clicks, and range of motion. Identifying underlying causes, stress, grinding, or trauma ensures your treatment is precise and effective.
This comprehensive evaluation allows us to prescribe therapies that address the symptoms and the origin of TMJ/TMD. Patients benefit from a comprehensive evaluation that guides the way to safe and long-lasting relief.
Non-Surgical Treatment Methods at Wisconsin Dental Wellness
Most patients can be successfully treated by conservative management without requiring surgery. Our non-surgical TMJ/TMD treatment DeForest, WI, consists of:
- Lifestyle and Dietary Alterations: Eating a soft-food diet, quitting gum chewing, and not forcing oneself to eat can relieve the jaw of tension.
- Physical Therapy and Exercises: Mild jaw exercises and posture adjustments help to build up muscles and restore movement. These treatments also relieve strain on the joint.
- Stress Management Techniques: Since stress is such a common cause of grinding and tension in the jaw, relaxation techniques, night guards, and counseling may be prescribed.
These therapies help to reduce inflammation, increase mobility, and reduce pain. By starting conservative treatments, patients often experience dramatic improvement with the help of maintaining long-term oral health.
Surgical Treatment Options at Wisconsin Dental Wellness
While most patients improve with conservative treatments, surgery is necessary when symptoms persist or exacerbate. In the presence of severe joint structural compromise or if other treatments have failed, surgery is necessary.
Options can be:
- Arthrocentesis (flushing of the joint)
- Arthroscopy (minimally invasive repair)
- Open-joint surgery for more complex issues.
Like with any operation, TMJ surgery carries risks of infection, nerve injury, or limited movement. However, with careful instruction and personalized follow-up care, patients experience lasting relief and restored comfort.
Our team takes the time to fully discuss the potential benefits and risks with each patient and offers sensitivity during recovery.
A More Comfortable Tomorrow Begins Today
Hiding from jaw pain and proceeding with your daily life should never become your "new normal." At Wisconsin Dental Wellness, we provide trustworthy TMJ/TMD treatment in DeForest, WI, that's designed to restore balance, comfort, and confidence to your life. Start feeling better today. Schedule an appointment now and let us restore your smile.