TMJ/TMD Treatment in Chandler, AZ

Have you ever experienced that nagging jaw pain or that bothersome clicking sound when you chew? If you have, you might be dealing with TMJ/TMD issues. But not to worry, Dr. Jennifer Enos at Dental Arts of Chandler is here to help you navigate and treat this pesky condition.

What is TMJ/TMD?

TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint — it’s the hinge connecting your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. TMD, or Temporomandibular Disorders, refers to a variety of conditions affecting this joint and the muscles controlling jaw movement. Basically, it’s when the joint of your jaw starts acting a bit finicky.

Causes of TMD

Let’s dig a bit deeper. What causes this jaw-joint issue?

• Jaw Injury: A heavy blow or whiplash can lead to TMD.
• Grinding or Clenching: Habitual teeth grinding puts a lot of pressure on the joint.
• Arthritis: Just like other joints, your TMJ can fall victim to arthritis.
• Dysfunction: Sometimes the joint’s disc moves out of its proper alignment, leading to TMD.

Symptoms of TMD

A few signs that your TMJ might be the source of your issues:

• Pain: This could be in the jaw, ear, or even the face.
• Sound Effects: Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when you chew or open your mouth.
• Jaw Issues: Difficulty in moving the jaw, or it getting “locked” in place.
• Headaches: Often mistaken for migraines or tension headaches.

Connections to Sleep Apnea

Here’s an interesting connection: TMD and sleep apnea often go hand-in-hand. Both can be the result of a misaligned bite or jaw issues. Plus, if you’re clenching or grinding because of sleep apnea, that could worsen TMD. It’s a cyclical issue. If you’re experiencing symptoms of both, it’s essential to mention them to Dr. Enos.

What Are Some Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

If you aren’t sure if you need to talk to a doctor about sleep apnea, consider the following symptoms:

• Loud snoring: Much louder than normal snoring.
• Stopping breathing: If you find yourself gasping for air in the night, take note of this important symptom.
• Difficulty staying asleep: with so much difficulty breathing at night, you’re bound to wake up a few times!
• Daytime exhaustion: Lacking a full night’s sleep will interfere with your daily energy.

Dr. Enos can help you with your TMD issues, but if you want to find out more about sleep apnea, talk to your doctor. Our team at Dental Arts of Chandler can address the TMD/sleep apnea cycle from there!

Treatment Options

There’s a silver lining to our TMJ/TMD chat. There are treatments available!

• Medication: Pain relievers or anti-inflammatories can help with the pain.
• Therapies: Physical therapy, along with exercises, can strengthen jaw muscles.
• Mouth Guards: Especially if grinding is the problem, a night guard can be a savior.
• Medical Procedures: In severe cases, there are a variety of procedures, from injections to surgery, to help you find relief.

Pricing and Insurance

Now, the practical part:

• Transparent Pricing: We believe in being upfront about costs, ensuring no surprise bills.
• Insurance Coverage: Many insurance plans cover TMD treatments. Our team will guide you through the details, ensuring you maximize your benefits.
• Flexible Payment: If you’re dealing with TMJ/TMD, treatments are essential for quality of life. We offer flexible payment plans to make sure everyone can access the care they need.

Call Us Today to Schedule an Appointment

If any of this resonated with you, or you just have a hunch that your jaw deserves some attention, Dr. Jennifer Enos is ready to assist.

Call us at (480) 963-5821, and let’s embark on a journey to jaw wellness. Your comfort and health are our top priorities!