TMJ Treatment Hamden

The Path to Lasting Relief from Jaw Pain

Portrait of smiling woman outside during golden hour

Do you often struggle with symptoms like jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and headaches? It is possible that you have TMJ disorder (TMD). What can you do to find relief? Our Hamden team is ready to assist you via TMJ treatment. Continue reading below to learn more about what this involves, or contact us directly to set up your consultation. We look forward to serving you!

Why Choose New Haven Dental Group for TMJ Treatment?

Effective, Non-Invasive Treatment Options
Dental Insurance Welcomed & Maximized
Highly Caring & Skilled Dental Team

What Is TMJ Disorder?

Illustration of temporomandibular joint

You have two temporomandibular joints (TMJs). These are the hinges, located just in front of your ears, that control movements of your lower jaw. When these joints become inflamed or damage, the symptoms of TMD start to develop.

TMD can have many different causes, including arthritis, dental misalignment, stress, injuries, teeth grinding and clenching, and more. Anyone can develop this condition, though it tends to be more common in women than in men.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

Doctor holding sign that says “TMJ disorder”

TMD can cause dozens of different symptoms. Some of the most common are:

Jaw pain or tenderness, especially near the ears
Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when you open or close your mouth
Difficulty chewing or pain while eating
Locking of the jaw in an open or closed position
Limited jaw mobility
Frequent headaches, facial pain, or neck discomfort
Descending pain that affects the back and other parts of the body
Earaches, ringing in the ears, or a feeling of fullness in the ears

Types of TMJ Treatment

Dentist and patient talking during friendly consultation

In order to determine how best to treat your TMD, our team will perform a thorough examination. This may involve a visual inspection and some X-rays. After we have gathered adequate information, we can advise you on your next steps. We may recommend some home remedies to reduce pain, such as dietary changes, jaw exercises, or heat/cold therapy. We may also suggest one of the following professional therapies:

Occlusal Splint

Occlusal splint for TMD against blue background

An occlusal splint is a custom-made device that looks like a mouthguard. You wear it at night, and it places a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth to prevent grinding and clenching. It also helps the lower jaw to rest in a better position, which can reduce strain on the TMJs.

Equilibration/Occlusal Adjustment

Happy dental patient in treatment chair

In some cases, TMD is caused by small discrepancies in how the upper and lower teeth work together. During an occlusal adjustment, we make minor modifications to the chewing surfaces of the teeth or existing restorations. This can take pressure off the jaw joints and provide a significant reduction in TMD symptoms.