Comprehensive TMJ Services in Houston, TX: Relieve Jaw Pain and Restore Comfort
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome (TMJ) is a common condition affecting a wide variety of people. TMJ is characterized by severe headaches, jaw pain, facial muscle aches, teeth grinding and occasionally ringing in the ears. The vast majority of TMJ sufferers are unaware that the root cause of these problems is something that Dr. Ross Pickei has effectively evaluated and treated for hundreds of patients over the last decade.
The symptoms of TMJ are debilitating and can greatly interfere with everyday life. The comfort and general well-being of the patient is at the heart of West University Dentistry, so pain relief is the first consideration of our office. Dr. Pickei will diagnose and devise an immediate plan to treat the underlying causes of the TMJ disorder.
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Reasons for treating TMJ
TMJ sufferers report that their symptoms generally worsen during periods of prolonged or unexpected stress, and that intense increases of stressful occurrences can lead to temporomandibular joint pain, headaches, neck pain, dizziness, and daytime fatigue.
The most common cause of TMJ is the misalignment of the teeth, often called “bad bite.” It is possible for Dr. Pickei to realign or adjust the teeth without the need for painful or expensive surgeries. The adjustment will stop the debilitating headaches, jaw pain, and the dizziness.
Teeth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism, is very common and often occurs at night. The grinding will eventually erode the structure of the teeth and lead to much more severe dental problems in the future. Untreated TMJ is one of the primary underlying factors in severely worn dentition, facial muscle aches, popping and locking of the jaw joint and loose teeth.
It is important for anyone experiencing the symptoms of TMJ to visit the Dr. Pickei for an exact diagnosis.
What does treating TMJ involve?
TMJ could be a result of several different problems. While teeth misalignment is the most common, an injury resulting from a blow to the meniscus cartilage is also a possibility. Initially, the team at West University Dentistry will thoroughly examine the jaw area, the patient’s bite, take X-rays, and review the patient’s history in order to make an accurate diagnosis and recommend necessary treatment.
Once a firm diagnosis is attained, there are several ways in which relief can be provided. A custom fitted bite guard can be made to counter the trauma caused by nighttime teeth grinding. A bite relationship analysis may be recommended by Dr. Pickei. He can also provide advice on relaxation techniques and medications which will lessen the effects of stress.
Lastly, changing the shape of the teeth and fixing the bad bite completely, often called “realignment,” is especially useful because it alleviates TMJ symptoms and may improve the aesthetic appearance of the teeth as well. Realignment involves adjusting the relationship between how the upper teeth come together with the lower teeth. This may require new restorations and/or adjusting the natural teeth. It is not a painful procedure, and it is one that Dr. Pickei has performed with great success over the years. As with any procedure, Dr. Pickei is happy to answer questions and discuss symptoms, options, and treatments.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of TMJ, we encourage you to contact West University Dentistry today to schedule an appointment.
CALL US: (713) 667-3430 REQUEST APPOINTMENT
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