Do any of the symptoms sound familiar?

• Clicking and popping in the jaw
• Constant ringing or pressure in the ears
• Aching teeth
• Pain in the jaw, neck, shoulders, or back
• Constantly waking up with sore throat, dry mouth, or a headache
• Stiffness in the jaw or problems with opening and closing your mouth

If one or more of these problems describe your current oral health situation, then you may be suffering from TMJ dysfunction, a potentially debilitating condition that directly affects your temporomandibular joints (commonly referred to as the TMJ).

Have you ever wondered how your jaw is able to move so fluidly whenever you speak or chew? This is due to the efforts of your two small temporomandibular joints, which are located just in front of your ears. They not only connect your lower jaw to your skull, but also contain important blood vessels and nerves. Unfortunately, if they become even slightly misaligned in some way due to stress or teeth grinding (bruxism), this can cause extreme pain and other negative symptoms. Thankfully, many dentists (including your local practices in Phoenix and Glendale) are well-versed in how to alleviate the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction.

Your local dentist will first perform a thorough examination of your teeth and jaw in order to determine the cause of your discomfort. Once they’ve confirmed your situation, they can provide you with a custom-fitted oral appliance. These appliances help to reposition your bite and eliminate nighttime teeth grinding while still feeling comfortable in your mouth.

Your dentist may also recommend building up the surfaces of your teeth if you’ve suffered extreme wear and tear. This will help restore your proper bite and alleviate pain.

Your local dentists in Phoenix and Glendale can treat your TMJ dysfunction carefully and effectively, helping you regain the higher quality of life you deserve. Our practice also serves patients from Peoria, West Phoenix, and beyond.