Nobody deserves to live with chronic pain but for many TMJ sufferers, pain is a part of daily life. If you are experiencing any of the following TMJ symptoms, schedule your consultation with Dr. Patrick Cieplak for a full evaluation and treatment .

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Signs and Symptoms of TMJ

  • Pain when biting down or chewing food
  • Persistent jaw and neck pain
  • Excessive tension in the jaw, neck, and shoulders
  • Difficulty eating and speaking without discomfort
  • Limited jaw mobility
  • Noticeable grinding, clicking, or popping sound when opening the mouth

Damaging Effects of Bruxism

Many patients have a habit of grinding or clenching their teeth, known as bruxism, but do not realize how damaging this habit is on their jaw health and teeth. Grinding and clenching the teeth puts unnecessary stress and pressure on certain parts of the mouth and can trigger jaw pain. Over time, this can lead to TMJ issues and a host of other oral health problems, such as loose teeth, worn tooth structure, or tooth fractures. We often treat bruxism by fitting patients with a nightguard and making some lifestyle recommendations that reduce jaw tension.

Effective TMJ Treatment Options

Dr. Cieplak may perform an occlusal adjustment to restore proper functioning of the bite. An occlusal adjustment improves the way the upper and lower teeth fit together by eliminating interferences on the chewing surfaces. If this does not alleviate some of the pain and discomfort you are experiencing, we can explore other treatment options, such as:

  • Anti-inflammatory pain medication
  • Applying warm or cold compresses to the area
  • Relaxation exercises to stretch and strengthen the jaw
  • Fitting for a nightguard/occlusal splint
  • Cortisone shots or other injectables to manage pain and inflammation
  • Jaw replacement surgery

Dr. Cieplak is one of only 3,000 dentists worldwide to achieve Mastership with the Academy of General Dentistry.

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Need to Discuss Your Oral Health Options with Dr. Cieplak?

Look forward to a pain-free lifestyle with our customized TMJ and bruxism treatment options. Schedule your private consultation with Dr. Patrick Cieplak today. Contact our staff and we'll be sure to follow up with you within 24 hours.

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