Have you gone to multiple doctors for chronic headaches, only to be given medication after medication? While medications can address the symptoms of painful headaches, they don’t address the cause. For many individuals, chronic headaches and facial pain can be attributed to disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). At the office of Chase Patton D.D.S., we offer TMJ treatment including bite splints for patients suffering with TMJ symptoms.
The temporomandibular joints connect the jaw to the skull and are responsible for all the movement of the jaw. When these joints become inflamed, it affects the muscles that move the jaw as well as the bite. TMJ disorders are the dysfunction in the bone and muscles that can cause a range of symptoms.
The only way to truly know if you have a TMJ disorder is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Patton. Still, there are some symptoms you can look out for:
Bite splints, also called occlusal splints, are a common and effective treatment for TMJ disorders. These splints are custom made and include both mouth guards and mouth plates. Once in place over the upper and lower teeth they stabilize the jaw and ease muscle tension by preventing grinding and clenching of the jaws. While most occlusal splints are worn at night, some patients may need to wear it during the day for several weeks before moving to night wear.
You don’t have to learn to live with chronic headaches or facial pain. In addition to occlusal therapy with TMJ night splits, we also work with patients to make lifestyle changes that can improve the symptoms of TMJ. These may include certain exercises, relaxation techniques to ease jaw tension, and even posture therapy. If you are in the Columbia, MO area and would like to find relief for your symptoms, please call us at (573) 875-7040.