(386) 734-8585TMJ Treatment – DeLand, FL
Improve Your Jaw’s Function and Stop Facial Pain
If you experience recurring jaw pain or have difficulty opening or closing your mouth, you could be suffering from a disorder of your temporomandibular joints (TMJ). They are located just in front of your ears and connect your lower jaw to your skull. The joints allow you to perform various functions necessary for your overall wellness and quality of life. Unfortunately, dysfunction of the joints can occur for several reasons, which can result in pain and other issues. Dr. Christopher J. Cowell has the solutions you need to stop your discomfort and improve your jaw functions with TMJ therapy.
What is TMJ Disorder?
A TMJ disorder occurs when the joints function incorrectly. Various factors can contribute to TMJ dysfunction, like a poorly balanced bite, past injury to the joints, arthritis, or grinding your teeth. Your TMJ specialist will examine your mouth and jaw to determine the source of your dysfunction. Your dentist may take digital X-rays and impressions or use other diagnostic services to create an effective treatment plan.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
When your jaw is not functioning correctly, you can experience a diversity of symptoms that can affect your daily life, including your ability to perform simple movements, like yawning. Although every situation differs, common signs of a TMJ disorder include:
- Clicking, popping, or grating in the jaw
- Jaw or facial pain
- Jaw locking in an open or closed position
- Limited jaw mobility and stiffness
- Difficulty biting and chewing
- Teeth grinding and clenching
- Migraines and headaches
- Neck pain
- Tinnitus or ear pain
Types of TMJ Treatment
Your dentist will determine the best solution to ease your jaw pain and improve its functions. Every case is unique, but common treatments include:
Occlusal Splint
An occlusal splint is designed to take pressure off your temporomandibular joints to allow it to heal. The mouthguard can also be used to protect your teeth from bruxism, which can also reduce headaches.
Limited Equilibration/Occlusal Adjustment
If your upper and lower teeth don’t contact one another correctly, it can cause a poor bite. This can cause jaw pain and dysfunction. An occlusal adjustment makes slight modifications to your teeth or restorations to ensure a balance between the two arches.
You don't have to struggle to chew your food or live with recurrent facial pain. TMJ therapy can help. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (386) 204-3710.
TMJ Treatment FAQs
Can TMJ Be Cured Permanently?
Many factors can cause TMJ dysfunction. Depending on the underlying cause, TMJ treatment in DeLand can fix the issue permanently, like fixing a bad bite with braces. However, not all cases can be cured permanently, but you can benefit from long-term improvement with the right treatment and lifestyle. Our office uses the latest technologies and techniques to improve TMJ disorders. Committing to your treatment plan can reduce flare-ups. Some patients can go many years with no symptoms.
Is TMJ Treatment Expensive?
There's no flat fee for TMJ treatment because every case is unique, but it won't cost you an arm or a leg. Your dentist in DeLand will create a plan that fits your budget. Our office also accepts various payment methods to keep treatment affordable. Besides traditional methods and insurance, you can make monthly payments using a third-party financing company, like CareCredit. Based on your credit approval, you may qualify for little or no interest in financing.
Can TMJ Be Treated Without Surgery?
Your TMJ specialist will only recommend surgery when other methods have failed to provide relief. Often, jaw pain can be improved using less invasive methods, like oral appliances, splints, or braces. When combined with changes at home, like jaw-strengthening exercises, eating soft foods, and pain management, patients can benefit from lasting relief. However, surgery may be necessary for some patients with severe TMD or cases caused by joint injuries, deformities, or other structural issues.
Is TMJ Treatment Covered By Insurance?
There is no easy answer because every situation and policy differs. Not all insurance plans cover TMJ treatment, while others have limitations on treatment options. Our office will work on your behalf with your insurance to maximize your coverage to lower the amount you will pay out-of-pocket. They will explain how your benefits are being used and your payment options for any remaining balance, like CareCredit. Your financial situation doesn't have to stand in the way of stopping your jaw pain.