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TMJ pain can affect every area of life, including how you eat, the quality of your sleep, and how well you can focus during the day. This condition can also cause headaches and neck pain, leaving you feeling tense and exhausted. Fortunately, Dr. Leah Zils can help with dentist-approved methods to relieve TMJ pain.
A variety of factors can cause or contribute to TMJ disorder. One cause can be dental issues such as misaligned teeth or poor dental arch development. However, sleep habits that you’re unconscious of or even lifestyle habits can create TMJ discomfort. For example, if you’re feeling stressed emotionally, it can lead to clenching and grinding your teeth.
TMJ disorder can manifest in several different ways, including any or all of these:
The key to finding relief from pain caused by TMJ disorder is getting a comprehensive evaluation and proper diagnosis. Dr. Zils has expertise in distinguishing TMJ disorder from other causes of jaw pain. She can help identify structural problems and any joint dysfunction.
Every person’s TMJ case is unique, and your treatment approach should be tailored to your specific symptoms and needs. With personalized care, you can be sure your treatment is as effective as possible.
Patients wearing a custom-fitted splint can reduce or prevent jaw clenching or teeth grinding. The splint also allows the jaw to heal and decompress. Many patients report significant improvements in jaw mobility and reduced pain after consistently using a specialized splint.
If your bite is misaligned, it can worsen TMJ symptoms by placing excessive strain on the jaw joint. A bite adjustment can correct these issues by reshaping or repositioning your teeth to align properly.
Physical therapy can complement TMJ treatment by targeting the muscle tension some patients experience with TMJ disorder. The therapy may include stretching exercises, massage, or helping correct posture to relieve pain.
Strategic changes in your lifestyle can impact your TMJ therapy. For instance, practicing mindfulness or developing a meditation routine can reduce your overall tension. Also, changing your diet to avoid chewy or hard foods will minimize the strain on your jaw joints.
The first step to eliminating TMJ pain is contacting Dr. Leah Zils and the team at Leah Zils, DDS, in The Woodlands, TX. Dr. Zils and her team pride themselves on the quality of care they give to their patients. If you live in The Woodlands or areas around Spring, Tomball, or Conroe, call (281) 973-2276 today to schedule a consultation.
Dr. Leah Zils
Dr. Leah Zils is a highly skilled dentist with years of experience providing top-tier care to her patients. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Texas A&M University with a degree in biology and earned her dental degree from the University of Texas School of Dentistry in Houston. Committed to lifelong learning, Dr. Zils has completed over 140 hours of continuing education at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. Certified in laser dentistry and oral sedation and a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the American Academy of Orofacial Pain, she ensures her patients receive the most advanced, compassionate care.