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TMJ therapy is an important part of oral health and improving your smile, especially if you are experiencing pain or discomfort in the jaw. Many people don’t realize that dental care involves much more than just the teeth and gums. Because teeth are part of the body’s musculoskeletal system, a comprehensive dental evaluation should also address issues that affect the face, head, jaw, neck and back. With Dr. Leichter’s expertise in periodontics, he can provide specialized treatment for temporomandibular joint disorders1 to help restore function and comfort to your jaw.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) therapy is a specialty area focused on treating disorders of the temporomandibular joint. This joint connects the jawbone to the skull, and when it is not functioning correctly, it can lead to pain, clicking noises, and other facial symptoms.
At Boca Perio Implants, we provide comprehensive therapy to help patients with chronic pain and other symptoms associated with TMJ dysfunction. Our treatment process starts with a thorough assessment of the condition to determine the best course of action for each patient. The goal is always to provide effective relief from temporomandibular joint discomfort as quickly and conveniently as possible.
A candidate for temporomandibular joint therapy typically experiences pain in the face, jaw, and neck, as well as difficulty chewing and tenderness in the jaw. Some people also experience a popping or clicking sound when they open their mouths or chew.
By receiving regular treatments at Dr. Leichter’s office in Boca Raton, you can enjoy lasting relief from symptoms and a healthier smile for years to come! Temporomandibular joint therapy benefits include:
Our dentists at Boca Perio Implants are the best TMJ specialists in Florida. They’ve had extensive training in temporomandibular joint therapy and utilize the industry’s highest-quality materials and standards of care. This means you can relax with the knowledge that you are in safe hands!
Additionally, Dr. Leichter has been providing diagnoses and treatment plans for patients suffering from temporomandibular disorders for many decades. His philosophy is to provide quality care that emphasizes prevention, comfort, safety, and patient education throughout the entire treatment process. Book your appointment today and experience the best in dental care!
Is TMJ a medical or dental problem?
Temporomandibular joint disorder is a medical and dental issue. The best doctors to consult would be a periodontist, oral surgeon, or TMJ dentist specializing in temporomandibular joint treatments.
How long does TMJ last?
The duration of temporomandibular disorder varies depending on factors, such as its severity and underlying cause, but it typically lasts anywhere from weeks to months when treated properly and promptly.
What does a dentist do to treat TMJ?
A dentist may recommend2 non-surgical treatments such as bite adjustment, dental restoration, oral splints, facial muscle exercises, or behavioral changes to reduce stress, corticosteroid or botulinum toxin type A injections. They may also recommend medications or physical therapy. In severe cases, surgery such as open-joint surgery or modified condylotomy may be recommended.
Can you get dental work done with TMJ?
In some cases, dental work can be done while managing temporomandibular joint disorder symptoms, but it is important to talk with your dentist first to discuss any risks that could be associated with the procedure and specific precautions they should take while performing the work.
Is TMJ covered by medical or dental?
Medical plans typically cover the diagnosis but treatments are usually covered by dental insurance plans.
Can vestibular disorder be caused by TMJ?
Vestibular disorders can be caused by problems in the temporomandibular joint or due to other causes such as an ear infection or head trauma. However, research into this connection is still limited and more studies are needed to understand how vestibular disorders are related to the temporomandibular joint.
Can braces help TMJ disorder?
In some cases, braces can help reduce misalignment of the jaw joints and give relief from symptoms.
Are there things that make TMJ worse or increase your risk?
Certain habits such as teeth grinding and clenching, stress, smoking and alcohol consumption can worsen the effects, so avoiding those activities will help ease the discomfort associated with the condition. Research has also shown that certain psychological conditions and pain may put you at an increased risk3 for temporomandibular disorders.
1 American Dental Association. Temporomandibular Joints. Available: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/tmj.
2 Mayo Clinic. TMJ Disorders – Diagnosis. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tmj/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350945.
3 American Dental Association. July JADA find psychological conditions, other pain disorders increase TMD risks. Available: https://www.ada.org/publications/ada-news/2021/june/july-jada-finds-psychological-conditions-other-pain-disorders-increase-tmd-risk
Contact Boca Perio Implants, committed to serve all communities around West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Pompano Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach and Delray Beach!
Dr. Julian C. Leichter is a Harvard Fellow, and Boca Raton’s trusted leader in periodontics with more than 40 years of experience in natural tooth preservation, and implant preservation. His periodontal techniques continue to nurture many healthy smiles throughout Florida, and beyond.
