About TMJ Disorders
Dr. Amy Mandalia can diagnose and treat complex dental problems such as bite disorders that can have a detrimental affect on overall dental health. Bite disorders are also known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD) because they typically involve dysfunction somewhere in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), or jaw joint. This can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics.
Common Causes of TMJ Disorder (TMD)
- Trauma to the jaw or face
- Misaligned teeth
- Teeth grinding (although it is also common for an imbalance in the TMJ to lead to teeth grinding)
- Hormonal changes
- Stress
The key to lasting dental health and the restoration of a comfortable smile is to identify the cause of your bite disorder, provide effective treatment and address any damage that may have occurred as a result of teeth grinding. Dr. Mandalia takes a holistic approach to your dental health care and will take the time to understand possible lifestyle habits or stressors that may also be contributing to a bite disorder and teeth grinding. Practicing relaxation techniques can often complement any necessary dentistry and help to maintain your results as well as improve your quality of life.
TMJ Therapy in Buckhead
Dr. Mandalia performs a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of your occlusion, or bite, during routine dental care and looks for the signs of a possible underlying problem such as worn or damaged teeth. Effective treatment will restore a comfortable bite and alleviate the often painful symptoms that accompany TMJ disorders.
Common Signs & Symptoms of TMJ
- Frequent headaches
- Ear, neck or jaw pain
- Clicking or popping jaw
- Worn teeth
- Chipped or cracked teeth
In most cases, Dr. Mandalia will recommend the use of a custom oral appliance called a bite plate or splint. Similar to a mouth guard, this appliance will help maintain a balanced bite and proper jaw position during sleep to prevent teeth grinding and jaw clenching.
Bite Correction Therapy
Bite correction or occlusal alignment involves the use of several types of dental procedures to change how the teeth make contact. This is the key to achieving lasting results for patients suffering from TMD due to an imbalanced bite.
Treatment options may include:
- Dental bonding or dental crowns
- Orthodontics
- Reshaping of tooth structure
- Dental veneers