TMJ Relief in New Hope, PA

Your temporomandibular joint, also called TMJ, connects your jawbone to your skull and performs a very important function in chewing and speaking. It is also a unique joint that moves as a sliding hinge, unlike any other joint in your body. Because of its unique characteristics, the TMJ can move out of alignment and become inflamed. TMJ inflammation can cause all types of other problems like headaches and facial pain that can be severe.

Some of the common signs and symptoms of TMJ problems are:

• Clicking, popping or locking when you chew or open and close your mouth
• Morning headaches
• Ear pain, fullness or congestion
• Teeth clenching or grinding
• Pain or difficulty when you chew or open your mouth
• Aching facial pain that can radiate to other areas of your face
• Limited opening of the mouth
• Jaw tenderness and pain

For relief of minor TMJ symptoms, you can try to:

• Avoid chewy, sticky foods and gum
• Eat soft foods
• Take over-the-counter pain relieving medications
• Gently massage your jaw muscles
• Apply moist heat or ice packs to your jaws and face

If you continue to have symptoms or your symptoms become more severe, Dr. Rickert is here to help with several non-invasive and non-surgical professional treatments for TMJ, at New Hope Cosmetic & Family Dentistry. A full comprehensive exam is necessary to understand the patient's pain and discomfort. This evaluation will include a detailed health history as well as a detailed clinical exam to evaluate the jaw movement, skeletal structures, and muscles. The airway, posture, and overall dental health will also be evaluated.

Some therapies may include:

• Wearing a custom-made TMJ splint
• Physical therapy stretching exercises
• Moist heat and ice to the affected areas
• Cold laser therapy
• Botox
• Referral for further airway evaluation

You don’t have to suffer with TMJ! Call New Hope Cosmetic & Family Dentistry in New Hope, PA and get relief from TMJ symptoms!