TMJ Treatment in Beaverton, OR
Finding relief from jaw pain is possible with the right care and a knowledgeable team on your side.Your jaw joint, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ), acts like a sliding hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull, and when it isn’t functioning correctly, even simple actions like chewing or speaking can become painful. At Ensley Orthodontics, we understand how debilitating TMJ disorders (TMD) can be, affecting everything from your comfort to your quality of life. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive, non-invasive solutions to help our Beaverton patients find relief and restore proper function to their bite.
Understanding TMJ Disorders
Temporomandibular disorders are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. These issues can arise from various factors, including genetics, arthritis, jaw injury, or chronic teeth grinding (bruxism).
When the bite is misaligned, the muscles of the jaw have to work overtime to position the jaw comfortably. This constant strain can lead to inflammation, pain, and long-term damage to the joint. Our goal is to identify the root cause of your discomfort and create a treatment plan that addresses the underlying issue rather than just masking the symptoms.
Common Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
Because the TMJ is connected to so many facial structures, symptoms can vary widely and may not always seem directly related to the jaw. If you experience any of the following, you may be suffering from TMD.
- Jaw Pain or Tenderness: Persistent aching in the jaw joint or the muscles around it.
- Headaches and Migraines: Frequent tension headaches, especially upon waking up.
- Clicking or Popping: A clicking, popping, or grating sound when you open or close your mouth.
- Locking Jaw: Difficulty opening or closing your mouth completely, or the jaw getting “stuck.”
- Earaches: Pain around the ear without an infection being present.
- Facial Pain: General tiredness or soreness in the face.
How Orthodontics Can Help: TMJ Disorders
While some cases of TMD can be managed with stress reduction or medication, many are caused by structural issues with the bite (occlusion). Orthodontic treatment focuses on correcting these misalignments to reduce strain on the joint.
- Splint Therapy: We often begin with a custom-made oral appliance, or splint, worn over the teeth. This device helps stabilize the bite, prevents teeth grinding, and allows the jaw muscles to relax and heal.
- Bite Correction: Once the jaw joint is stable, we may recommend orthodontic treatment—such as braces or clear aligners—to permanently correct the bite. By aligning the teeth properly, we ensure that the jaws fit together harmoniously, preventing future strain.
- Comprehensive Care: For complex cases, we work closely with other specialists, including physical therapists and oral surgeons, to ensure you receive the most effective holistic care.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ
Can braces fix my TMJ pain?
If your TMJ pain is caused by a bad bite (malocclusion), braces or aligners can be highly effective. By aligning the teeth, we allow the jaw to close in its optimal position, relieving pressure on the joint.
Is TMJ treatment covered by insurance?
Coverage for TMD varies significantly by insurance plan. Some medical or dental plans offer benefits for diagnostic exams and appliances. Our team will happily verify your specific coverage and help you understand your benefits.
Will the clicking sound in my jaw go away?
Treatment aims to reduce pain and improve function. While the clicking sound often diminishes or disappears as the joint heals and inflammation goes down, in some cases, the noise may persist even after the pain is gone.
What happens during the consultation?
Dr. Ensley or Dr. Edmondson will perform a thorough examination of your jaw movement, bite, and facial muscles. We may also use advanced imaging to view the joint structure. Based on this evaluation, we will discuss whether orthodontic intervention is the right path for you.
Stop Living with Jaw Pain
You don’t have to suffer through chronic headaches and jaw discomfort. Contact Ensley Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation at our Beaverton office. Let us help you find the relief you deserve and get back to living pain-free.
