Tacoma TMJ Evaluation

TMJ Evaluation

TMJ Evaluation is an essential process for identifying and managing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can significantly impact your daily life. At Lund Dental Associates, we recognize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to alleviate discomfort and improve your overall well-being. TMJ disorders often present with a range of symptoms that can vary in severity and frequency.

Symptoms

Experiencing symptoms of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders can be incredibly uncomfortable and disruptive to your daily life. At Lund Dental Associates, we understand the profound impact that these symptoms can have on your overall well-being and quality of life. TMJ disorders often present with a range of symptoms that can vary in severity and frequency.

Common symptoms include:

• Jaw Pain: Persistent pain in the jaw, particularly around the joint area, which may radiate to the neck and shoulders.
• Headaches: Frequent headaches or migraines that may be related to tension in the jaw muscles.
• Clicking or Popping Sounds: Unusual sounds in the jaw when opening or closing your mouth, often accompanied by discomfort.
• Difficulty Chewing: Challenges in chewing food or a feeling that your bite is “off.”
• Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty in fully opening your mouth or experiencing a locking sensation in the jaw.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek evaluation and treatment from a qualified dental professional. Left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to chronic pain, dental problems, and other health issues. Dr. Cara Lund and the team at Lund Dental Associates are highly experienced in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. Through a comprehensive evaluation, we can determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your discomfort and improve your quality of life. Don’t let TMJ symptoms hold you back from living your best life—schedule an appointment with Lund Dental Associates today.

Causes

At Lund Dental Associates, we understand that TMJ evaluation is crucial in identifying the underlying causes of temporomandibular joint disorders. TMJ issues can arise from various factors, each contributing to the discomfort and dysfunction associated with the condition.

Common causes of TMJ disorders include:

• Misalignment of the Jaw: A misaligned bite or jaw can place excessive stress on the TMJ, leading to pain and dysfunction.
• Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep, can wear down the TMJ and surrounding muscles.
• Stress: High levels of stress can cause tension in the jaw muscles, exacerbating TMJ symptoms.
• Arthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ, leading to pain and inflammation.
• Injury: Trauma to the jaw or head, such as from an accident or impact, can damage the TMJ and cause lasting issues.

Our team of experienced dentists, led by Dr. Cara Lund, specializes in conducting thorough evaluations to pinpoint the specific factors contributing to your TMJ symptoms. By addressing the root causes of TMJ disorders, we can develop personalized treatment plans to alleviate pain and restore proper function to your jaw joint. Our comprehensive approach to TMJ evaluation includes a detailed examination of your dental and medical history, as well as advanced diagnostic imaging techniques to accurately assess the condition of your temporomandibular joint. Trust Lund Dental Associates to provide expert care and guidance in managing your TMJ issues effectively.

Diagnosis

At Lund Dental Associates, our team of experienced dentists, led by Dr. Cara Lund, specializes in providing thorough TMJ evaluations to accurately diagnose and treat temporomandibular joint disorders. Proper diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective treatment, and our comprehensive examination process is designed to assess every aspect of your TMJ health.

During your evaluation, we will:

• Assess Jaw Alignment: We examine the alignment of your jaw and bite to determine if any misalignment is contributing to your symptoms.
• Evaluate Muscle Function: We assess the function of the muscles around your jaw, checking for any signs of tension or dysfunction.
• Check for Inflammation: We look for signs of inflammation or discomfort in the TMJ area, which may indicate an underlying issue.

Our goal is to pinpoint the root cause of your TMJ symptoms to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. Using advanced diagnostic tools and techniques, our team at Lund Dental Associates is able to identify any underlying issues contributing to your TMJ disorder. From conducting detailed patient interviews to performing physical examinations and utilizing imaging technology, we leave no stone unturned in our quest for an accurate diagnosis. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, you can trust that you are in good hands when seeking a TMJ evaluation at our office.

Treatment

At Lund Dental Associates, our team of experienced dentists, including Dr. Cara Lund, offers comprehensive treatment options for TMJ disorders. Our personalized approach to treatment focuses on addressing the underlying causes of TMJ dysfunction to provide long-lasting relief for our patients. We understand that every patient is unique, and we tailor our treatments to meet your specific needs.

Treatment options may include:

• Oral Appliances: Custom-fitted mouthguards or splints can help alleviate stress on the TMJ and reduce teeth grinding.
• Physical Therapy: Specialized exercises and therapies can strengthen the jaw muscles and improve joint function.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Stress management techniques and dietary changes can reduce strain on the TMJ and promote healing.

If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ dysfunction, it is important to seek treatment from a skilled dental professional. Our team at Lund Dental Associates is dedicated to providing top-notch care for patients in Massachusetts and beyond. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about our TMJ evaluation services and how we can help you find relief. Massachusetts Dentist

Prevention

At Lund Dental Associates, our focus is on preventing TMJ issues before they even start. Dr. Cara Lund and our team of experienced dentists are dedicated to providing comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to help patients maintain optimal jaw health. By emphasizing early detection and intervention, we aim to address any potential TMJ concerns before they progress into more serious conditions.

Through regular check-ups and screenings, our team can identify any signs of TMJ dysfunction and recommend appropriate preventive measures. This may include:

• Lifestyle Modifications: Recommendations for reducing habits that contribute to TMJ stress, such as teeth grinding or poor posture.
• Stress Management: Techniques and resources to help manage stress, which can exacerbate TMJ symptoms.
• Custom Mouthguards: Creating custom-fitted mouthguards to alleviate pressure on the jaw joint and protect against teeth grinding.

By taking a proactive approach to TMJ evaluation and prevention, we strive to help our patients achieve long-term oral health and overall well-being. Regular dental visits and a commitment to preventive care can go a long way in ensuring that your jaw remains healthy and free from pain.

Book Your Appointment Today!

Don’t wait any longer to address your TMJ issues. Call Lund Dental Associates at 781-438-2700 to schedule your TMJ evaluation today. Visit our contact us page for more information or check out our reviews on Google Maps.