TMJ

Are you experiencing jaw discomfort, or heard about TMJ/TMD and wonder if it’s impacting you? Cottage Hill Dental Care is here to shed light on this often misunderstood dental concern and guide you toward relief.

TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint — that’s the hinge connecting your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. TMD, on the other hand, refers to Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, the condition that arises when there’s trouble with this hinge mechanism. Think of it as a door hinge squeaking and getting jammed.

Various factors could be making that jaw of yours unhappy:

• Grinding or Clenching: It’s like having a 24/7 gym session for your jaw.
• Jaw Injury: Accidents can sometimes lead to joint trauma.
• Arthritis: Inflamed joints aren’t exclusive to your knees!
• Connective Tissue Diseases: Sometimes other diseases play a part.

Here’s a brief checklist to see if TMD might be your uninvited guest:

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Difficulty or pain while chewing
• Aching pain around your ear
• Locking of the joint, making it hard to open or close your mouth

Turns out, TMD and sleep apnea might be more linked than you’d think. Some shared causes and effects intertwine the two. For instance, clenching the jaw can lead to TMD, and it’s also a common response to disrupted breathing during sleep. Understanding this connection ensures that you receive comprehensive care.

If you think this might apply to you, talk to Dr. Al-Asadi and Dr. Sanaz Amiran, and they will help you find answers.

Relief is on the horizon. Dr. Mohammad Al-Asadi and Dr. Sanaz Amiran are equipped with a range of treatment strategies:

• Dental Splints: Custom-made for your mouth, these devices redirect the jaw action.
• Physical Therapy: Jaw exercises can strengthen and bring relief.
• Medication: Pain relievers or anti-inflammatories can manage discomfort.
• Lifestyle Changes: Simple modifications, like a softer diet or stress management, can sometimes work wonders.

We get it, medical costs can be daunting. At Cottage Hill Dental Care, we’re committed to transparency:

• Clear Pricing: No jargon. We’ll provide clear cost details without any fine print.
• Insurance Guidance: Navigating insurance can be a maze. Our team is adept at guiding you through the process, helping you maximize benefits.
• Flexible Payment Plans: Making TMD treatment accessible is our goal. Let’s talk about options that won’t break the bank.

Jaw pain doesn’t have to be your new normal. If you’re in Elmhurst or just around the corner, reach out to Cottage Hill Dental Care. Dr. Mohammad Al-Asadi and Dr. Sanaz Amiran are here to help you embark on a journey toward comfort and relief. Give us a call at 630-530-7998, and let’s put you on the path to a pain-free smile! We’re waiting eagerly to hear from you.