Jaw Pain, Headaches, and Grinding: There Is a Solution
If you have been living with chronic jaw pain, frequent headaches, or a jaw that clicks, locks, or aches by the end of the day, you may have a temporomandibular disorder, commonly referred to as TMD. It is more common than most people realize, and it is treatable.
At Kocian Family Dental, we use a careful diagnostic process and targeted treatment approaches to help patients find meaningful, lasting relief.
What Is TMD?
TMD refers to a group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joints, which are the hinge joints on either side of your jaw that connect your lower jaw to your skull. When these joints are stressed, misaligned, or damaged, they can cause a range of symptoms that extend well beyond the jaw itself.
Common symptoms of TMD include:
- Jaw pain or soreness, especially in the morning
- Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw
- Chronic headaches or migraines
- Pain in the face, neck, or shoulders
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Uneven wear on your teeth
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
What Causes TMD?
TMD can develop from a single incident or accumulate over time. Common contributing factors include:
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), often during sleep
- A misaligned bite that places uneven stress on the joints
- Arthritis affecting the jaw joints
- Jaw or facial injury
- Chronic muscle tension related to stress or posture
In many cases, multiple factors are involved, which is why a thorough evaluation is important before deciding on a treatment approach.
How We Treat TMD
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of your symptoms. We use digital imaging and a thorough examination to build an accurate picture of what is happening before recommending a course of action.
Custom Mouthguard or Night Guard
For patients who grind or clench, a custom-fitted oral appliance worn during sleep can significantly reduce the stress placed on the joints and muscles. Many patients notice improvement within a few weeks.
Botox for TMD
Botox is not just a cosmetic treatment. When injected into the jaw muscles responsible for clenching and grinding, it temporarily reduces the intensity of muscle contractions, relieving the pressure that drives a significant portion of TMD symptoms. For patients who have not found adequate relief through an oral appliance alone, Botox can be a meaningful addition to their treatment plan. Dr. Kocian has received advanced training in therapeutic Botox and administers it right here in our office.
Dental Splints
Similar to a night guard, a splint is designed to stabilize the jaw and discourage clenching. It can also help reposition the jaw in a way that relieves joint strain over time.
Bite Adjustment
In some cases, minor adjustments to the bite itself can eliminate the imbalance that is driving the problem. This is evaluated carefully and only recommended when appropriate.
TMJ and TMD Treatment in Gretna, NE
Kocian Family Dental serves patients from Gretna, Papillion, La Vista, Bellevue, and the greater Omaha metro area. If jaw pain or headaches have become a regular part of your life, it is worth finding out whether TMD is the cause.
