TMJ Treatment – Annandale, VA

Put a Stop to Jaw & Head Pain

TMJ disorders occur when the temporomandibular joint that connects the jaw to the skull is not working properly. TMJ disorders may develop for multiple reasons. If you clench or grind your teeth, you may put stress on the jaw and TMJ joint. Injuries and arthritis can damage the joint and muscle ligaments, removing the “cushion” for the jaw joint. Dr. Salari provides comprehensive TMJ treatment for Annandale, VA dental patients. She has experience in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. It is important to visit her dental office on a regular basis so she can detect TMJ problems and provide restorative dental care.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

Dentist pointing to digital x-rays to explain T M J disorder symptoms and treatment options

Common signs of TMJ disorders include:

  • Jaw clenching and teeth grinding
  • Sore and stiff jaw muscles
  • Frequent headaches
  • Jaw clicking and popping
  • Difficulty eating
  • Worn teeth

Contact our dental office if you have noticed any of these signs of TMJ disorders. We will help find the best treatment option for your needs.

Treating TMJ Disorders

Dr. Salari will evaluate your teeth and jaw for a proper diagnosis. Then, she will create a treatment plan. Some of the options she offers for TMJ treatment include:

Medicine and Exercise

A pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, or muscle relaxant may be used for patients with mild TMJ symptoms. Medicine can also be directly injected into sore or painful joints in order to reduce inflammation. If you have mild TMJ symptoms, you may also eat soft foods, exercise your jaw, and apply ice packs to your jaw.

Oral Appliance Therapy

Dr. Salari may also recommend oral appliance therapy, a treatment that uses a nightguard. This nightguard fits over the teeth and relaxes the muscles. It also stops the teeth from touching and wearing down the enamel. Nightguards protect the cartilage and joint surfaces. They move your jaw forward, relieve pressure points on the jaw, and reposition the jaw discs.

Bite Adjustment and Surgery

Bite adjustment, or equilibration, helps even out the upper and lower teeth. This procedure reduces pressure caused by crooked teeth or an uneven bite by smoothing the bumps and ridges of the tooth surfaces. For patients with severe TMJ issues or jaw misalignment, we may recommend surgical options. TMJ surgery is the last result of severe degeneration or dislocation.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Do you suffer from jaw stiffness, soreness, or pain? You may have a TMJ disorder. Contact Nova Smile Dental today at  703.763.0800 or request a dental appointment with Dr. Salari online.