Experiencing chronic jaw pain or discomfort in your facial muscles? At Hayes Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders (TMD) to relieve your pain and restore functionality. Based in Cookeville, TN, our expert team is here to provide effective solutions that enhance your quality of life and promote long-term wellness.
You Deserve A Life Free From Jaw Pain
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull, allowing your jaw to move smoothly. TMJ disorders (TMD) occur when this joint becomes dysfunctional, causing symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, earaches and difficulty chewing.
Living with TMJ disorders can be challenging, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, you can reclaim your comfort and quality of life. Our comprehensive approach will help you understand your condition and explore the best treatment options.
- Custom Oral Appliances: A custom-fitted mouthguard can help alleviate pain by relieving stress on the jaw joint. These appliances are designed to fit comfortably, offering effective support during sleep or daily use.
- Therapeutic Exercises and Lifestyle Modifications: We provide guidance on exercises and lifestyle changes that can improve your symptoms, enhance jaw function and prevent future flare-ups.
- Stress Management & Relaxation Techniques: Since stress can exacerbate TMJ pain, we can offer strategies for managing stress and maintaining relaxation, reducing the frequency and intensity of symptoms.
- Coordinate with Specialists: For severe cases, we work closely with specialists to ensure a multifaceted approach to treatment, providing you with comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of your condition.
We Picture A World Where Your Jaw Functions Comfortably and Naturally
At Hayes Family Dentistry, we understand that each patient’s needs are unique, which is why we offer tailored treatments that align with your specific symptoms and lifestyle. Our compassionate team is committed to helping you achieve effective relief and restored function.
Because Happiness Matters
What Are TMJ And TMD, And How Are They Different?
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull. TMD, or temporomandibular disorders, encompass a range of conditions affecting this joint and the muscles controlling jaw movement. People often use TMJ to refer to both the joint and the disorders, though TMD is the accurate term for the condition.
What Symptoms Indicate I Might Have TMD?
Symptoms of TMD include jaw pain or tenderness, difficulty chewing, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, headaches, earaches and facial pain. If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to seek an evaluation from a dental professional experienced in TMJ disorders.
How Is TMD Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a thorough examination, including a review of your dental and medical history. Your dentist may take X-rays or recommend an MRI to better understand the structures around the joint and determine the best course of treatment.
What Treatments Are Available For TMJ Disorders?
Treatments range from custom oral appliances that help reposition the jaw to therapeutic exercises and lifestyle modifications. In certain cases, stress management techniques and coordination with specialists may be recommended for comprehensive care.
Can Stress Cause Or Worsen TMD Symptoms?
Yes, stress can contribute to or exacerbate TMJ symptoms by causing muscle tension around the jaw. Learning stress management techniques and employing relaxation strategies can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with TMD.
We Believe In A Pain Free Smile
Our patients have found life-changing relief under our care. One happy patient remarked, “The personalized plan they crafted changed everything. I finally feel like myself again without the constant pain.”
Don’t let TMJ disorders affect your daily life. Contact Hayes Family Dentistry at (931) 526-1614 to schedule your consultation and find the relief you deserve. Discover how our expert care can help you live pain-free and with renewed confidence in Cookeville, TN.