TMJ Treatment in Bellevue, WA
Headaches? Jaw or facial pain? Let us help!
Dealing with TMJ and Facial Pain Issues
TMJ (jaw joint) and other facial pain issues are grouped together as temporomandibular dysfunction or TMD. It can range from annoying to debilitating and can be long or short in duration.
It’s important to understand that TMD can stem from many different causes, and sometimes even multiple causes. The key is to determine the cause of your issues, which can lead to the appropriate treatment.
If you're seeking orthodontic treatment, and experience TMJ symptoms, let us know. Our Bellevue orthodontist, Dr. Jeff Schur, works closely with a TMJ specialist to help you:
- Investigate the cause(s) of your TMJ disorder.
- Determine which healthcare professional(s) could best address your issue.
- Establish an approach to your individualized care with aims of short and long-term relief.
Contact us to book a complimentary initial assessment.
Bonus: Your initial assessment with Dr. Schur is free of charge!
TMJ Treatment Will Help You:
End Your Pain
At-home therapies may help relieve pain, but they don't necessarily prevent future flare-ups or make for a sustainable, long-lasting answer. With TMJ treatment (even non-surgical), you’ll work toward a permanent pain-free outcome.
Improve Your Dental Care
The side effects of TMD frequently involve dental problems, like cracked or worn down teeth. Fixing your TMJ will help prevent those problems and ensure any future orthodontic, cosmetic, or restorative work is not ruined.
Eat Comfortably Again
When was the last time you chewed a nice steak without shooting pain? With TMJ treatment, say "goodbye" to your soft food diet. Eating what you want and when you want will surely affect all aspects of your life.
‘‘ I was impressed by how comprehensive they were before any cost to me, and making sure I am informed well to make my decision on how to proceed. No pressure either. ’’
Mich S., 5-Star Google Review
Is TMJ a Medical or Dental Problem?
Sometimes, it's both!
Orthodontists are highly qualified to diagnose facial pain and TMJ issues because many of them have extensive education and training in oral maxillofacial, otherwise known as your oral and facial muscles.
Dr. Schur has specialized training on aligning your bite with your jaw. So if you need TMJ treatment, he’ll refer you to a top TMJ specialist and work closely with them throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Plus, getting a TMJ examination by an orthodontist will also help you rule out dental problems since many symptoms overlap, like tooth pain and sensitive teeth.
What Can You Expect
Here's a glimpse of how we treat TMJ in Bellevue, WA.
Common Questions About TMJ
Find the answers below or call us at (425) 747-4477.
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. It acts as a hinge on either side of your mouth, connecting your jawbone to your skull.
When the TMJ doesn't function properly or is impaired, it causes a temporomandibular disorder (TMD).
Symptoms of TMD unfortunately tend to make themselves well known:
- Jaw joint or facial pain
- Functional issues, such as locked jaw or limited jaw mobility.
- Discomfort or difficulty chewing.
- Ear pain, ringing, or popping
- Chronic headaches or migraines
- Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching)
- Worn-down teeth
- Sensitive teeth or toothaches when no dental problems exist
If you notice these signs or have been told you have TMD, contact us for a complimentary assessment.
Common causes of TMJ disorder include:
- Stress
- Injury to the joint or surrounding tissues
- Joint diseases like osteoarthritis
- Joint shifts out of place
- Arthritis
- Disc is misshapen, erodes, or moves
TMJ treatment may be covered by medical or dental insurance.
TMJ symptoms may go away on their own.
The problem here is that the cause of your TMJ issues still exists, and symptoms may return (flare-up) again and possibly worse than before.
If TMD is not treated, you're at risk for:
- Increased facial pain and ear ringing
- Joint damage
- Wearing down your teeth
- Cracking or breaking your teeth
- Bone loss around teeth
- Negative impacts on your mood, appetite, and quality of life
- Sleep disturbance or disorder
Bite splints and night guards can be effective when used properly for a specific condition and adjusted over time.
Unfortunately, many dentists and doctors recommend these dental appliances as a generic fix. TMJ problems are more complex than that and therefore don't work for the majority of people. And if you don't get it adjusted as your bite changes, then it'll become less successful.
If you currently use a splint or night guard and still experience pain, contact us for a complimentary consultation.
Schur Orthodontics is located in Bellevue, WA... opens in a new window to Google Maps... and serves surrounding communities, including Redmond, Kirkland, Seattle, Renton, Eastside, and Woodinville.
Let's Put an End to Your TMJ Pain
Schedule a complimentary consulation today!
