TMD/TMJ Therapy
Living with chronic jaw pain can transform simple activities like eating and speaking into uncomfortable ordeals. The clicking, popping, and persistent discomfort associated with temporomandibular joint dysfunction can significantly impact your quality of life, leaving you searching for solutions that provide lasting relief. Whether your symptoms developed gradually or appeared suddenly, finding the right approach to TMJ treatment is essential for addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes.
At Imagine Dentistry in Charlotte, North Carolina, we provide personalized TMJ treatment designed to address your specific needs and symptoms. Dr. Ann Blaine Coambs has over 20 years of experience and has been recognized as a Charlotte Magazine Top Dentist Award Recipient from 2016 to 2024. Dr. Shelli Boucher has over 15 years of experience, including extensive continuing education at The Dawson Academy to understand TMJ problems and complex bite-related dental issues. Using state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques and treatment approaches, Dr. Coambs and Dr. Boucher help patients find relief from TMJ pain and dysfunction, restoring comfort and proper jaw movement!
Understanding TMJ Disorders
Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) affects the complex system of joints, jaw muscles, and ligaments connecting your jawbone to your skull. These conditions can develop for numerous reasons, making proper diagnosis crucial for effective treatment.
Many factors can contribute to TMJ disorders, including:
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
- Arthritis affecting the jaw joint
- Jaw injury or trauma
- Dental misalignment or bite problems
- Stress and tension in facial pain and jaw muscles
- Connective tissue disorders
A proper diagnosis begins with a comprehensive examination of your jaw function, bite alignment, and jaw muscles. Dr. Coambs and Dr. Boucher will evaluate how your jaw moves, listen for abnormal sounds, and assess areas of tenderness or pain. This thorough approach ensures we identify the specific factors contributing to your TMJ issues and helps control jaw movement to reduce discomfort.
Common TMJ Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of TMJ disorders early can lead to more effective treatment and prevent the condition from worsening. While jaw pain and discomfort are hallmark symptoms, TMJ disorders can manifest in various ways throughout the head, neck, and shoulder region.
Jaw-Related Symptoms
The most obvious signs often occur in and around the jaw joint itself. You may experience pain or tenderness in your jaw, especially when chewing, speaking, or yawning. Many patients also notice clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing their mouths. In some cases, the jaw may temporarily lock in an open or closed position, making it difficult or painful to move normally.
Associated Symptoms
TMJ disorders frequently cause symptoms beyond the jaw area. Persistent headaches, particularly around the temples, are common complaints. You might also experience ear-related symptoms such as ear pain, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or a feeling of fullness or pressure. Some patients report dizziness or balance issues related to their TMJ problems. Pain can radiate to the neck, shoulders, and upper back, creating a pattern of discomfort throughout the upper body.
Treatment Options at Imagine Dentistry
Our approach to TMJ treatment focuses on non-invasive, conservative treatments whenever possible. We create customized treatment plans based on your specific symptoms, the severity of your condition, and the underlying causes.
Custom Oral Appliances
One of the most effective treatments for many TMJ patients is a custom-fitted oral appliance. These devices, often worn at night, help properly position your jaw, reduce grinding and clenching, and alleviate pressure on the temporomandibular joint. Both doctors use the state-of-the-art iTero Lumina scanner to create precisely fitted appliances for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
Physical Therapy Techniques
We may recommend specific jaw exercises and stretches to strengthen muscles, improve range of motion, and reduce tension. These therapeutic exercises can be performed at home as part of your ongoing treatment plan. For some patients, we also suggest heat and cold therapy to manage pain and inflammation in the jaw area. For the most in-depth care, we will refer you to a physical therapist to work in conjunction with the care we provide.
Lifestyle Modifications
Simple changes to daily habits can significantly reduce TMJ symptoms. We provide guidance on stress reduction techniques, as stress often contributes to jaw clenching and muscle tension. Dietary modifications may include: avoiding extremely chewy foods, stopping gum chewing, or cutting food into smaller pieces. Improving posture, especially during computer use or smartphone browsing, can also help reduce strain on the jaw and neck.
Love Your Smile Again
TMJ disorders can affect more than just your jaw—they can impact your overall well-being and confidence. At Imagine Dentistry, we believe in taking a holistic approach to your oral health, addressing not only the physical symptoms but also how these issues affect your daily life.
Dr. Ann Blaine Coambs, Dr. Shelli Boucher, and our caring team are committed to helping you find relief from TMJ pain and dysfunction. With advanced training from the Dawson Academy and decades of experience, Dr. Coambs and Dr. Boucher provide exceptional care in a comfortable, supportive environment. To schedule a consultation and learn more about our TMJ therapy options, call us at (704) 540-7600 or request an appointment through our contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions about TMD/TMJ Treatment in Charlotte, NC
Nonsurgical treatments for TMJ pain often include custom oral appliances, physical therapy exercises, and lifestyle changes such as eating soft foods to reduce strain on the jaw. Muscle relaxants may also be prescribed to ease muscle tension around the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Additionally, relaxation techniques and stress reduction can help minimize jaw clenching and improve symptoms. These approaches aim to relieve pain and restore function without the need for TMJ surgery.
Surgical TMJ treatments are usually considered only after nonsurgical treatments fail to relieve severe pain or improve jaw function. TMJ surgery might involve procedures to repair or replace parts of the joint when dysfunction worsens significantly or structural damage occurs. Surgery can help patients with chronic, debilitating symptoms that impact eating, speaking, or overall quality of life. A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine if surgery is appropriate or if less invasive options remain viable.
Eating soft foods reduces the amount of chewing and pressure placed on the temporomandibular joint, which can help relieve TMJ pain. Avoiding tough, chewy, or crunchy foods allows the jaw muscles to relax and prevents further irritation or inflammation of the joint. This dietary modification is often recommended as part of nonsurgical treatments to manage TMJ dysfunction and decrease discomfort during flare-ups.
Muscle relaxants can relieve muscle spasms and tension around the temporomandibular joint, providing short-term pain relief for TMJ dysfunction. Combined with relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or guided imagery, they help reduce jaw clenching and stress-related muscle tightness. These methods can decrease TMJ pain and prevent symptoms from worsening by promoting muscle relaxation and improved joint movement.
Yes, TMJ dysfunction can get worse without proper treatment, potentially leading to increased pain, jaw locking, and difficulty eating or speaking. Ignoring symptoms or delaying care may cause chronic inflammation, muscle fatigue, and further joint damage. Early intervention using nonsurgical treatments like custom appliances, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and prevent TMJ dysfunction from worsening. Severe cases may eventually require surgical TMJ treatments if left untreated.
Imagine Dentistry at the Arboretum
Dental Insurance
We accept most dental insurances, and we will always work to get the most out of your benefits. If it would help to break up the cost of your care into smaller monthly payments, we are prepared to discuss payment plan options with you. We offer an excellent Membership Plan with our office, as well as financing with Care Credit. If you are looking for a dentist in Charlotte, NC, our team will be delighted to assist you in scheduling an appointment today.
