Exquisite Smiles

TMD/TMJ Treatment

If you suffer from jaw pain, headaches, or discomfort in your facial muscles, Exquisite Smiles can provide Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) treatment in Attleboro. Under the expert care of our father-son team Dr. James Phelan and Dr. Tyler Phelan, our team can help you regain comfort, improve oral health, and enhance your overall well-being.

Understanding TMD/TMJ

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, commonly known as TMD or TMJ, is a condition that affects the jaw joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull. The TMJ is responsible for various essential functions, including speaking, chewing, and swallowing. When this joint becomes misaligned or experiences dysfunction, it can lead to uncomfortable and painful symptoms.

Common TMD Symptoms

TMD can manifest in various ways, and its symptoms may vary from person to person. Some of the most common signs of TMD include:

Jaw Pain: Persistent pain in the jaw joint or the muscles around the jaw.
Headaches: Frequent and often severe headaches, particularly in the temples.
Clicking or Popping Sounds: Audible sounds when opening or closing the mouth.
Limited Jaw Movement: Difficulty in fully opening or closing the mouth.
Ear Pain: Pain that radiates from the jaw to the ear area.
Facial Pain: Discomfort in the face, particularly around the cheeks or in front of the ears.
Neck and Shoulder Pain: Tension and discomfort in the neck and shoulders.
Lockjaw: Occasional locking of the jaw in an open or closed position.

Why Seek TMD Treatment?

TMD can significantly impact your daily life, causing discomfort, pain, and limited functionality. Seeking treatment for TMD is crucial for several reasons:

Pain Relief: TMD treatment aims to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with the condition, improving your overall quality of life.

Improved Functionality: Proper treatment can help restore normal jaw function, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile without hindrance.

Preventing Further Damage: Untreated TMD may lead to more severe oral health issues, such as teeth grinding, which can cause dental problems. Seeking early treatment can prevent these complications.

Enhanced Well-being: TMD treatment not only addresses physical symptoms but can also reduce stress and anxiety associated with chronic pain.

Our Approach to TMD Treatment

At Exquisite Smiles, we understand that every patient’s TMD experience is unique. Our approach to TMD treatment will be customized to your situation. Here’s an overview of our TMD treatment process:

Comprehensive Assessment: During your initial consultation, our experienced dentists, Dr. James Phelan or Dr. Tyler Phelan, will conduct a thorough examination to diagnose the root cause of your TMD and assess its severity. This assessment includes evaluating your jaw movement, muscle tenderness, and bite alignment.
Conservative Therapies: We prioritize non-invasive and traditional treatments, such as lifestyle modifications, jaw exercises, and dental splints/appliances, to relieve TMD symptoms.
Advanced Techniques: In some cases, we may recommend advanced techniques like BOTOX® injections or orthodontic treatment to address more complex TMD issues.
Ongoing Care: We provide ongoing support and monitoring to track your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Custom Night Guards

We understand the debilitating impact that Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) can have on one’s quality of life. We offer personalized solutions to alleviate discomfort and promote overall well-being. One of our specialized services involves crafting custom night guards tailored to address the specific needs of individuals suffering from TMD. These meticulously fabricated night guards provide a comfortable and effective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing grinding and clenching during sleep, which are common causes of TMD-related pain. By wearing these customized appliances, individuals can experience reduced jaw tension, minimized headaches, and improved sleep quality, allowing them to regain control over their oral health and overall comfort.