TMJ
Dysfunction Of the Temporomandibular Joint
If you have chronic discomfort in or around your jaw joint, you may be suffering from TMJ disorder. These temporomandibular disorders occur when there is inflammation in the TMJ or surrounding tissues.
You should see a dentist if you are experiencing frequent clicking or grating that affect your ability to speak or eat, as these may be symptoms of temporomandibular disorders. TMJ disorders can drastically affect your jaw function, making it necessary to seek TMD treatment.
Certain symptoms and warning signs can indicate whether or not you're suffering from TMD...
Common TMD Symptoms
TMJ disorders can manifest themselves in a variety of ways. Each patient may experience slightly differing symptoms, but most experience some kind of discomfort around the temporomandibular joint. Common symptoms generally include:
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Let's take a closer look at what causes temporomandibular disorders...
Diagnosing TMD
In order to properly diagnose your temporomandibular joint, our VA dentists will assess your mouth and facial structures. When they see your bite in action, they'll be able to determine which solutions can provide the most relief for your TMD symptoms.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Are you experiencing symptoms of TMD? Our team of skilled professionals, headed by Dr. Han, is dedicated to bringing the highest-quality dental care to you and your family. If you're concerned about TMJ disorders or another dental issue, don't hesitate to reach out to our office today. We love improving our patients' lives one smile at a time.
In practice for over 10 years, Dr. Daniel Sok Woong Han is affiliated with a number of professional organizations, including the Virginia Dental Association, Northern Virginia Dental Society, American Academy of Periodontology, and American Dental Association. Along with Dr. Ahn and Dr. Ju, he aims to provide the best TMJ and general dental care for your money. To learn more, contact our Leesburg, VA, office today online or by calling:
(703) 777-1162
"Caring and Courteous of Your Time..."
Vlad Tabakin
2021
The professionalism and friendliness of the whole team is outstanding. Always have a great, smooth experience here. The staff is friendly, respectful, caring and courteous of your time. I had an amazing experience with Doctor Han. He explained all the treatment and has lots of experience. His Assistant is very professional and very personable. The office is run very smoothly and efficiently. Definitely recommend.
Lyn Carter
2021
Dr. Han is my favorite dentist ever. Kim is amazing and is always the friendly voice when you call. She does an amazing job of managing the office. Everyone at Smile Designer of Leesburg does their part in making patients feel safe during this pandemic.
What are my treatment options if I'm diagnosed with TMJ dysfunction?
Treatments for TMJ Disorders
Deprogrammer
One initial option for TMJ relief is a deprogrammer, an oral appliance that resembles a retainer. Using a deprogrammer, we can evaluate the stability of your bite while allowing your lower jaw to relax into place. Once your lower jaw has eased itself into a more comfortable position, we can recommend further treatment to maintain your bite.
Mouthguard
In order to mitigate the issues caused by constant nighttime teeth grinding and clenching, oral appliances like mouthguards are oftentimes useful for TMJ health. Designed to be worn nightly, mouthguards can help stabilize your jaw and keep your temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles in a comfortable position.
Braces
In some cases, orthodontic intervention may be necessary to obtain a more permanent, stable solution for your jaw joint. By shifting your bite, braces can relieve the tension surrounding your TMJ joint. The end goal of braces for TMJ is to move the jaw into a stress-free position that works for your facial muscles.
TENS
Another solution to relieve TMJ-induced tension is TENS, a take-home device that uses electrode patches to block nerve pains caused by TMD. The TENS current overrides pain signals, allowing you to relax as your pain fades away. By easing pain, TENS can also combat against clenching and grinding.
TMJ Surgical Options
In some cases, temporomandibular disorders become severe enough to warrant surgical intervention. Our dentists take care to thoroughly assess your situation and refer you to a skilled oral surgeon if necessary. Through surgical procedures, your jaw can be altered to avoid future headaches and temporomandibular joint issues.
Whether you need relief from clenching, headaches, or other temporomandibular disorders, our team can help alleviate jaw discomfort and improve your quality of life.
Affording TMJ Treatment
Our dentists believe that everyone deserves to live free from TMJ discomfort. That's why we offer so many flexible financing options at our practice. In addition to accepting most dental insurance plans, we also offer Care Credit and in-house financing options. We will also most likely accept your PPO insurance and offer monthly payment plans for our orthodontics patients. Our staff works with you to ensure you can afford the quality dental treatment you need.
"Professional and Friendly..."
Kaitlyn Alexander
2021
Wonderful dentist office. The staff are both professional and friendly. I highly recommend Smile Designer!
Dani Rae
2021
Absolutely amazing service always! Everyone is so kind and helpful and the environment is very peaceful and comfortable. Highly recommend.
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