At Aurora Bayview North Family Dental, we provide dental solutions that help patients to feel proud of their smiles. This includes professional teeth whitening treatment, which we can provide in our comfortable office in Aurora or with safe and effective take-home kits. These whitening methods can help patients achieve a brighter smile.
TMJ disorders involve the joint connecting the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. This joint is located on both sides of the head, just in front of the ears, and allows the jaw to move up, down, and side to side. When the TMJ becomes misaligned or overworked, it can lead to discomfort or impaired movement.
Common causes of TMJ disorders may include:
TMJ disorders can present a range of symptoms, which may vary in severity and frequency. Common symptoms include:
TMJ treatment at ABN Family Dental is personalized based on the severity of the condition and the specific symptoms involved. The goal of treatment is to relieve pain, restore proper function, and reduce the strain on the jaw joint.
One of the most common and conservative treatment options for managing TMJ disorders is the use of a custom-made nightguard. Nightguards are oral appliances that are worn over the teeth, typically during sleep, to help reduce pressure on the jaw joints and surrounding muscles.
A nightguard creates a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, helping to:
Sleep apnea and TMJ disorders can sometimes be interconnected, as both conditions may involve disruptions in jaw positioning, muscle tension, and airway function during sleep. For example, teeth grinding or jaw clenching (often associated with TMJ issues) can also be a response to interrupted breathing during sleep. At ABN Family Dental, we take a comprehensive approach when evaluating TMJ symptoms and consider whether sleep apnea may be a contributing factor. If signs of sleep-disordered breathing are present, we can explore oral appliance therapy designed to support both the jaw and airway.
While store-bought mouthguards are widely available, they tend to offer a one-size-fits-all approach and may not fit properly. An ill-fitting guard can cause additional discomfort or even contribute to further jaw misalignment. On the other hand, custom nightguards are designed specifically for your mouth using precise impressions of your teeth. This ensures a more comfortable fit, better durability, and effective jaw support. Custom guards are also thinner and less bulky, making it easier to breathe and speak.
Whether you’re a new or recurring patient, please call our office to schedule a consultation with our Aurora dentist, who can determine the best TMJ treatment plan for you. One of the ways we can relieve pain and discomfort is with a custom nightguard or through other oral appliances. Overall, our goal is to identify the underlying causes of discomfort and develop a treatment plan that supports long-term relief.
Welcome to ABN Family Dental in Aurora, where we provide a wide suite of dental care services, including family and cosmetic dentistry services.
