Get Relief From Your TMJ Disorder

If you are tired of the jaw pain, the headaches, and the facial soreness, then you are ready to get relief from your TMJ disorder . You are ready to call Total Dental Care of South Carolina.

We have treatments that can provide the TMJ relief that you are seeking.

But the only way we can help is if you come to our dentist office in Columbia, SC.

You can schedule a consultation with Dr. Douglas R. Forbes, DMD, by calling or contacting us online.

Signs Of A TMJ Disorder

TMJ problems are relatively common, and they can develop into a TMJ disorder or TMD. How do you know if you have a TMJ disorder? To know for certain, we would recommend making an appointment with Dr. Forbes. He can examine your mouth and jaw to make a determination.

There are some symptoms you should watch for, however, to know if you should make an appointment at Total Dental Care of South Carolina:

☐ Toothaches

☐ Frequent headaches or earaches

☐ Facial soreness or tenderness

☐ Pain in the neck, shoulders, or upper back

☐ Inability to fully open or close your mouth

☐ Jaw pain while eating or after meals

If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms often, then you should call our office today.

The Reasons You May Have A TMJ Disorder

Knowing the symptoms of TMJ disorders is one thing. Treating the causes of your TMD is something else.

And TMJ disorders can have multiple contributing factors.

TMJ is an abbreviation for temporomandibular joint. You have two of these joints, which connect your lower jaw to your skull. TMJ problems can affect either or both joints at the same time.

Since your TMJ are joints, they can be affected by arthritis. Injuries can affect the alignment of your jaw, and illnesses or infections can be detrimental for your jaw as well.

One of our big concerns is teeth grinding. This is bad for your teeth since it can wear down your enamel and increase your risk of tooth decay.

Teeth grinding also can put added pressure on your TMJ. Teeth grinding can be the result of misalignments with your teeth or jaw.

It also can be a way of coping with stress. Many times, people who grind their teeth are not aware that they are doing so. In fact, millions of Americans grind their teeth in their sleep.

If you frequently wake up with headaches or jaw pain, you may be one of them.

Dr. Forbes doesn’t want you to be in pain. He doesn’t want you to feel like you need to take a pain reliever every morning. He also wants you to be able to enjoy a meal without worrying that you will be in pain when you are finished.

Dr. Forbes wants you to call us today to get help with your TMD.

Treatment For TMJ Relief

When you come to Total Dental Care of South Carolina, we will give you a thorough examination. We know that TMJ disorders can have multiple causes, and we want to identify anything we can that could be contributing to your condition.

In addition to a physical examination by Dr. Forbes, you may need X-rays and medical scans to determine the source of the problem.

If your TMJ issues are minor, you may be able to take some steps at home to alleviate your pain.

Moist heat can help if you are having jaw mobility problems. Cold or ice packs can reduce swelling or numb pain in your jaw. Lifestyle changes can help you reduce stress or find new ways to cope with the stress in your life.

If your problems persist in spite of those efforts, remember Dr. Forbes is available to help.

One thing we can do is create night guard if teeth grinding is a factor in your TMJ disorder. Night guards are a special kind of mouthguard that you wear while you sleep. These mouthguards keep your teeth separated so you can’t grind them together.

The night guards also can help by changing the resting position of your jaw. As you grow accustomed to wearing the night guard, your jaw will feel relaxed in this position, thus alleviating the pressure on your TMJ.

Don’t Let Your TMJ Continue To Cause Pain

TMJ disorders can disrupt your daily life. Dr. Forbes and Total Dental Care of South Carolina can help you get your life back to normal.

Make an appointment with our dentist in Columbia, SC, by calling 803-272-4162 or using our online form .

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