Millions of Americans experience Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), yet many people with symptoms may not have a proper diagnosis. If you’re noticing symptoms like jaw pain, jaw tightness, or even ringing in the ears, you may be in the early stages of TMD. Some people also experience neck stiffness, shoulder discomfort, or upper and mid-back pain, which may all trace back to TMD. Our Jacksonville, NC neuromuscular dentists offer effective TMD treatments that help patients regain their quality of life.

What is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?

The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are located on either side of your jaw, just below the ears. These small but complex joints allow essential movements like talking, chewing, yawning, and laughing. As the only joints in the body capable of moving in three directions—front-to-back, side-to-side, and up-and-down—the TMJs are some of the hardest-working joints in our bodies.

However, trauma, stress, or overuse can prevent the TMJs from functioning smoothly, leading to painful and often debilitating symptoms. When these joints become irritated or strained, they can trigger a chain reaction that affects the surrounding muscles, nerves, and even other areas of the body.

Why Early TMD Treatment is Important

Early TMD treatment is critical to managing symptoms before they worsen. By addressing symptoms promptly, we can prevent further joint stress and potential complications. At Family Comprehensive & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Ed Covert and our team in Jacksonville, NC, use state-of-the-art technology and effective TMJ treatment options to relieve symptoms and restore jaw function. Many patients experience noticeable relief after their first treatment, as proper TMJ function helps reduce pain and improve mobility.

Early Signs and Symptoms of TMD

Early symptoms of TMD often start subtly but can become more intense over time. If untreated, TMD symptoms may worsen, causing a range of discomforts that extend beyond the jaw. Some common early signs include:

  • Head pain and headaches
  • Migraine-like pain
  • Jaw pain and tightness
  • Locked jaw (difficulty opening or closing the mouth)
  • Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Ear pain or fullness
  • Neck pain and stiffness
  • Upper and mid-back pain
  • Tingling or numbness in the hands and fingers

If you are experiencing any combination of these symptoms, contacting a TMD specialist can help you find relief and prevent further issues.

TMD Treatment Options in Jacksonville, NC

Our approach to TMD treatment involves a personalized evaluation and a range of customized treatment options.

Comprehensive Initial Evaluation

During your first appointment, we will gather a detailed medical and dental history and discuss any relevant lifestyle habits, sleep patterns, and symptoms. We utilize advanced neuromuscular dentistry technology to assess the functioning of your TMJs, which helps us detect early damage and make an accurate diagnosis. This information allows us to create a targeted treatment plan based on the specific needs of your jaw joints.

Behavioral Modifications

For some patients, relief can begin with simple lifestyle changes. Reducing caffeine intake, changing your sleep position, or investing in better-quality pillows and mattresses can significantly improve TMD symptoms. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol in the afternoon and evening, for example, often improves sleep quality, which is essential for jaw relaxation and recovery.

TENS Therapy (Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation)

TENS therapy is an in-office treatment that uses mild electrical pulses to stimulate and relax the affected muscles. TENS therapy is quick and provides immediate relief by promoting circulation and reducing muscle tension. Many patients find that TENS therapy reduces pain and enhances comfort in just one session.

Custom Oral Appliances

For patients who experience nighttime grinding or clenching (bruxism), a custom-designed oral appliance can be highly effective. This device keeps your jaw and teeth in an optimal position while you sleep, preventing excess strain on the TMJs and protecting your teeth from grinding. Oral appliances are comfortable and can be custom-fitted to each patient’s unique dental profile, providing relief from jaw pain and helping reduce muscle strain overnight.

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is an advanced imaging technique that captures detailed 3D images of the TMJs and surrounding structures. CBCT technology allows our Jacksonville, NC dentists to see even the smallest changes in bone structure, which can be crucial for detecting early wear and tear. This precision helps us pinpoint the underlying causes of TMD and plan more effective treatments to address them.

Taking the First Step to TMD Relief

If you’re experiencing early signs of TMD, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. The right treatment can prevent further discomfort and protect your TMJs from ongoing damage. At Family Comprehensive & Cosmetic Dentistry in Jacksonville, NC, our team is dedicated to providing relief through innovative and effective TMD solutions.

Don’t let TMD symptoms interfere with your life—let us help you find relief and comfort through compassionate, advanced care. Call us at (910) 353-5171.