TMJ/TMD Treatment
Are you experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or a clicking sound when you chew? These could be signs of TMJ/TMD, and you’re not alone in this discomfort. Here at CNS Dental, we understand how these symptoms can impact your daily life, and we’re dedicated to providing relief. Dr. Cara Schantz, with her skilled touch and compassionate care, is at the forefront of TMJ/TMD treatment in Arlington, VA.
What Is TMJ/TMD?
TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint, which is the hinge connecting your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. TMD, or Temporomandibular Disorder, refers to a group of conditions affecting the health and functionality of this joint. Understanding TMD begins with recognizing how integral the TMJ is to everyday activities like talking, chewing, and yawning.
Causes of TMD
TMD can arise from various issues, and pinpointing the cause is key to treatment. Some common culprits include:
- Jaw injury or trauma
- Stress-induced teeth grinding or clenching
- Arthritis in the TMJ
- Disk erosion or misalignment in the jaw joint
Symptoms of TMD
TMD can present a range of symptoms, which may include:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw
- Aching pain around the ear
- Difficulty in chewing or pain while chewing
- Aching facial pain
- Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close the mouth
If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to explore your treatment options.
Connections to Sleep Apnea
Interestingly, TMD and sleep apnea often travel in tandem. Sleep apnea can exacerbate TMD due to the tension placed on the jaw from repeated breathing interruptions during sleep. Conversely, TMD can contribute to sleep disturbances. At CNS Dental, we take a holistic approach to diagnosing and treating these interconnected conditions.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
If the connection between TMD and sleep apnea is making you curious about your own sleep health, here’s a quick list of sleep apnea symptoms:
- Loud snoring
- Exhaustion and sleepiness during the day
- Mood swings
- Periodically stopping breathing during sleep (observed by someone else)
- Choking and gasping for air while sleeping
If these symptoms sound familiar, come in and talk with us!
Treatment Options
Our goal is to provide you with relief and a return to normal function. Treatment options at CNS Dental may include:
- Oral appliances to reduce jaw tension
- Physical therapy exercises tailored for TMJ relief
- Medication to manage pain and inflammation
- Stress management techniques
We focus on non-invasive treatments to ease symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Is TMD Really That Bad?
Still not sure if you should get your jaw looked at? Here are a few things to consider when determining the best way to tackle your dental health:
- TMD is often linked with sleep apnea, which can result in poor sleep, and puts your health at risk from lack of oxygen and sleep deprivation.
- Significant discomfort from TMD can make it difficult to speak and eat.
- Depending on the severity of your TMD, it can cause greater problems in the long run, like tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or vertigo (dizziness).
Pricing and Insurance
Navigating the cost of dental care can be as challenging as dealing with TMD itself. Here’s our commitment to you:
- Transparent pricing on all treatment options
- Assistance with insurance claims and coverage verification
- Flexible payment options to ensure treatment is accessible
We’ll work closely with you to make sure your treatment plan fits within your budget and maximizes any insurance benefits you may have.
Call Today to Schedule an Appointment
Don’t let TMJ/TMD symptoms dictate your life any longer. Dr. Cara Schantz is ready to guide you toward a more comfortable, pain-free existence. Call (703) 304-3881 today to schedule your consultation at CNS Dental, where we can set up a thorough personalized treatment plan.
Come see Dr. Cara Schantz and her team at CNS Dental, where your jaw health is our priority. Let’s work together to find your path to relief.
Always a first class experience. Best doctor’s office I have ever been to
–- Orion