Occlusal Adjustment for Disorders of the TMJ
An occlusal adjustment is a correction to your bite, performed to more evenly distribute the pressure that your jaw encounters when you bite down. Occlusal adjustments are commonly performed for patients suffering from jaw pain or Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). With TMD, symptoms can begin suddenly, lasting years without treatment. Schedule a visit to to address disorders of your TMJ in Stuart, FL. Symptoms may include:
- Jaw pain when biting down, eating, or even at rest
- Headaches or migraines
- Temperature sensitivity to hot and cold food or liquids
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Loose teeth or changes in bite
What to Expect During an Occlusal Adjustment for Disorders of the TMJ
Dr. DeTure will evaluate your teeth, analyzing your bite to determine the points of contact. This is confirmed by having you bite down on a thin bit of film that will leave traces of blue or red wherever the opposing teeth come together. Tooth surfaces that prevent the jaw from closing or do not fit together properly will be ground down, or adjusted. While the adjustment is made with a dental drill, there is minimal discomfort associated with this technique.
After your occlusal adjustment, the force of biting down should be more evenly distributed, diminishing your jaw pain. Dr. DeTure may recommend that you wear a custom bite guard, or night guard, to cover the chewing surfaces when sleeping, especially if you are prone to tooth grinding. Depending upon the severity of your condition, you may need to wear the bite guard while awake.
Additional Therapies to Relieve Jaw Pain
Dr. DeTure may also recommend the replacement of older, eroded fillings and crowns. If your own natural teeth are excessively worn from the pressure of poor alignment, restorative methods may be necessary to provide an ideal surface for tooth contact. Orthodontic treatment is another method of aligning the teeth properly in an effort to alleviate jaw pain.
TMD, especially when it triggers chronic headaches and jaw pain, can be a debilitating condition. To address your disorders of the TMJ, contact Dr. DeTure in Stuart, FL for your consultation today.
Symptoms of Misalignment
Interferences can prevent the jaw from fully sliding into it’s anatomically correct position which can cause:
- Headaches
- Neck Aches
- Tooth Pain
- Bruxism or Teeth Grinding – Which can cause loss of tooth structure and receding gums.
- TMJ
Occlusal Adjustment Issues Can Lead to Serious Dental Problems
Schedule Your Occlusal Adjustment Consultation Today!