End Jaw Pain With TMJ Treatment in Overland Park, KS!

If you have a nagging pain in your jaw, our team may be able to relieve your discomfort with TMJ treatment in Overland Park. A TMJ disorder (TMD) is characterized by pain caused when your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) become irritated and/or inflamed. Many TMD sufferers grind their teeth or clench their jaw, putting lots of pressure on their TMJ.

Our treatment will:

  • Protect your teeth from breakage and other destructive effects of grinding
  • Restore normal function to your jaw so you can use it without pain
  • Prevent jaw pain from spreading to other areas of your body, like shoulders, neck, ears, and back
  • Relieve painful symptoms like headaches and facial pain
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Relieve TMJ Pain With a Custom Mouthguard

There are many treatments for TMJ disorders, some of which can be quite invasive and costly. However, many people find relief with a simple solution: a custom-made mouthguard. Our team will use impressions of your teeth and other measurements to make a mouthguard that fits you perfectly. It will gently move your jaw into a position that relieves pressure on your TMJ and prevents you from grinding your teeth.

This not only relieves your pain, but it also prevents damage that would otherwise require restorative dentistry. If bite problems are contributing to your TMD, it’s possible you might also get relief from SureSmile treatment.

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Signs of a TMJ Disorder

The most obvious symptoms of a TMJ disorder involve jaw pain, but there are others as well. Schedule an appointment with us if you’re experiencing any of these issues:

  • Chronic headaches
  • Unexplained earaches
  • Facial swelling, especially around the jaw
  • Lockjaw
  • Pain when opening or closing your mouth
  • Popping or clicking sound when using your jaw

Relieve your jaw pain with TMJ treatment in Overland Park, KS. Our office is located near the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead and the Tallgrass Creek Retirement Community, just one block east of 143rd and Metcalf at the east end of the Freedom Bank parking lot.

Step-by-Step Guide: Getting a Custom Mouthguard for TMJ

Schedule a Consultation

The process begins with a visit to our office to discuss your symptoms. If you regularly experience one or more TMJ symptoms, our team can evaluate your jaw movement, bite alignment, and overall oral health to determine if a custom mouthguard can help manage your TMJ-related discomfort.

Take Custom Impressions

If a mouthguard is recommended, we will take precise impressions of your teeth. These records capture the exact shape of your bite, allowing the appliance to be designed specifically for your mouth.

Custom Fabrication

Your impressions are then sent to a dental lab where the custom mouthguard is carefully created. This process can take about one to two weeks on average.

Fitting and Adjustments

Once the mouthguard is ready, we will have you return to the office for a fitting. Our team will check the fit and bite alignment to make sure the appliance feels comfortable and functions properly. Small adjustments may be made to ensure the best results.

Daily Use and Follow-Up Care

We will explain when and how to wear the mouthguard, often at night or during times of jaw tension. Regular dental visits allow us to monitor your symptoms, check the appliance for wear, and make adjustments if needed.

Your TMJ Questions Answered!

If you’re wondering if you may be suffering from TMJ or perhaps need more insight into managing your symptoms, Blue Valley Smiles is here to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about TMJ.

What Is TMJ?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. These are the 2 joints that connect your skull and lower jaw. When you suffer from temporomandibular disorder (TMD) you can experience one or more painful symptoms in these areas and the surrounding tissues.

Can I self-treat TMD?

There are steps you can take to manage your TMD at home. Hot compresses help if you’re experiencing a dull steady ache, whereas cold compresses help when you experience occasional sharp pain.

Eating small bites of softer foods can help cut back on the strain your jaw goes through when eating. You can also consider using over-the-counter pain meds like Ibuprofen for short-term symptom relief.

If symptoms persist, it’s important to schedule a visit with our team for additional treatment options.

Is there a cure for TMD?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for TMD. However, with proper check-ins with your dentist and doctor, your symptoms can be managed.

When should I see a healthcare professional?

If you experience persistent or worsening pain in your jaw, hear clicks and pops when you open your mouth, or experience difficulty opening and closing your mouth, then it’s advisable to schedule a visit with a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

Whether you know you’re suffering from TMD or just want to make sure your jaw is in good shape, request an appointment with Blue Valley Smiles today!

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