Are you tired of living with the constant pain and discomfort caused by TMJ/TMD? Look no further than North Billerica Smiles for the solution you've been searching for. Our team of experienced Billerica dentists understands the impact that TMJ/TMD can have on your quality of life, and we are committed to helping you find lasting relief.
When you choose North Billerica Smiles for your TMJ/TMD treatment, you can expect personalized care that is tailored to your unique needs. We take the time to listen to your concerns, thoroughly evaluate your condition, and develop a customized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your symptoms.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
During your initial consultation, our experienced dentists will carefully examine your jaw and bite, review your medical history, and listen to your concerns. We may also take X-rays or use other diagnostic tools to assess the condition of your temporomandibular joint. This comprehensive evaluation allows us to accurately diagnose your TMJ/TMD and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Non-Invasive Therapies
In many cases, non-invasive therapies can effectively manage TMJ/TMD symptoms. These may include lifestyle modifications, stress reduction techniques, and jaw exercises. Our skilled dentists will provide guidance on how to incorporate these therapies into your daily routine, helping you achieve long-term relief from pain and discomfort.
Advanced Treatment Options
When it comes to treating TMJ/TMD, we understand that one size does not fit all. That's why we offer a range of advanced treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Whether it's Botox injections or night guards, we have the expertise and experience to help you find the relief you've been searching for.
Botox Injections
Botox, a neurotoxin derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, is a safe and effective treatment for TMJ/TMD. When injected into the jaw muscles, Botox temporarily paralyzes them, reducing muscle tension and alleviating pain. This treatment option provides quick relief and can significantly improve jaw function, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with ease.
Night Guards
Night guards are custom-made oral appliances that are worn while sleeping. They help alleviate TMJ/TMD symptoms by reducing teeth grinding and clenching, which often contribute to jaw pain and muscle tension. Night guards provide a cushioning effect, protecting your teeth from excessive wear and tear while promoting proper jaw alignment. By using a night guard, you can wake up refreshed and free from the discomfort associated with TMJ/TMD.
Improved Quality of Life
By seeking TMJ/TMD treatment at North Billerica Smiles, you can experience a significant improvement in your quality of life. Our comprehensive approach to TMJ/TMD care aims to address the underlying causes of your condition and provide effective solutions for long-term relief. With reduced pain, improved jaw function, and better oral health, you can enjoy a life free from the limitations and discomfort caused by TMJ/TMD.
A dental implant includes two parts: an abutment and a restoration. Together, these two pieces create a permanent replacement tooth that looks and functions just like a natural one would.
The first step of the dental implant process is a consultation at North Billerica Smiles. During your visit, we’ll assess your smile to see if you’re a good candidate for dental implants. If so, we’ll move onto the treatment planning phase.
One of our dentists will take x-rays and scans of your mouth, then use the detailed images of your teeth, gums, jawline, and surrounding bone structures to come up with a precise treatment plan. Once this is complete, you will come in for your oral surgery and your abutment will be placed in your gum. When this heals, this is the part of your implant that will function as an artificial tooth root.
3-6 Months after your abutment is places and your gums are fully healed, you’ll come back in for your final appointment. During your last visit, we’ll attach a dental crown or other restoration to the abutment, and this will create a replacement tooth that looks and feels natural. You’ll be able to chew, speak, and smile with ease - with no gaps in your teeth!
Since dental implants are an invasive oral surgery, you can expect to feel some pain. However, we use powerful numbing agents and anesthetics to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible during your procedure. What’s more, we also send you home with a prescription for medication that will help ease your pain, if necessary. We do everything in our power to provide a smooth, pain-free implant treatment.
With proper care and oral hygiene, your dental implant should last the rest of your life. We also offer maintenance appointments to help ensure that your implant stays in good shape throughout the years.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge that connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull, which are in front of each ear. It lets you move your jaw up and down and side to side, so you can talk, chew, and yawn. TMJ disorders can cause pain in your jaw joint and in the muscles that control jaw movement.
The question of whether TMJ can go away on its own is a bit complex. In some cases, symptoms of TMJ disorders may go away without treatment. Minor TMJ discomfort can sometimes be alleviated with self-care practices at home, such as eating soft foods, applying ice to the affected area, and avoiding extreme jaw movements.
However, for many people, TMJ disorders can be a persistent problem that requires medical attention. If your symptoms are severe, long-lasting, or don't improve with self-care, it's important to seek professional help. At North Billerica Smiles, we offer a range of TMJ treatments to help manage symptoms and improve jaw function.
TMJ disorders can cause a variety of symptoms, which can vary in severity from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include:
Pain or tenderness in your jaw
Aching pain in and around your ear
Difficulty chewing or discomfort while chewing
Aching facial pain
Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth
TMJ disorders can also cause a clicking sound or grating sensation when you open your mouth or chew. However, if there's no pain or limitation of movement associated with your jaw clicking, you probably don't need treatment for a TMJ disorder.
Botox is a non-surgical treatment option for TMJ disorders. It works by blocking nerve signals in your muscles, causing them to relax. This can help relieve jaw tension and pain caused by TMJ disorders.
The effects of Botox for TMJ disorders are temporary, but they can last for a significant amount of time. On average, the relief provided by Botox for TMJ disorders can last anywhere from three to six months. However, the duration of the effects can vary based on factors such as the severity of your symptoms, the specific area treated, and individual response to the treatment.
After the effects of the first treatment wear off, repeat treatments are often necessary. Some people find that the effects of their Botox treatments last longer after they've had a few rounds of injections. However, it's important to discuss your treatment plan and expectations with your healthcare provider.
Remember, if you're considering Botox for TMJ disorders, it's essential to seek treatment from a healthcare professional with experience in this area. At North Billerica Smiles, our team is experienced in providing Botox treatments for TMJ disorders, and we're here to help you find the best treatment option for your needs.
Please call 978.262.0023 or click below to set-up an appointment online.