TMJ Treatment in Winston-Salem

I'm currently having pain in my jaw area, which may be related to my TMJ. What can I do? 

Do you have a TMJ-related dental emergency? We are passionate about helping. Please don't hesitate to call (336) 760-1277 to schedule an appointment today.

We will see emergency patients who are new to our office. We understand how uncomfortable and life-altering TMJ pain can be. Dr. Nelson is committed to providing TMJ pain relief in the Winston-Salem and the Piedmont Triad areas. We will see all emergencies, even if you are not patients of record at our office. 

We are happy to schedule a same-day emergency TMJ evaluation. We will try to rearrange our schedule so you can be seen on the same day you call.

What are some of the signs and symptoms of TMJ Disorder?

• Clicking or popping when opening and closing your mouth
• Persistent pain around the ear
• Limited mouth opening, especially in the morning
• Headaches around your temple area
• Waking up with a headache that lessons throughout the day
• Pain and soreness in the muscles of your cheeks
• Temporary lockjaw
• Soreness in teeth
• Wear and chipping of teeth
• Pain when chewing

What exactly do temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) mean?

Temporomandibular joint pain (TMJ) and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) are the most common terms describing jaw and muscle pain. 

TMJ

The TMJ is the joint that connects your skull (temporal bone) to your lower jawbone (mandible). You have two TMJs on either side of your head located just in front of your ear canal. If you place your fingers next to your ear and open and close your jaw, you can feel the joint rotating and occasionally popping. 

TMD

TMD stands for temporomandibular disorder. This term encompasses all of the possible issues that can arise with the structures of these joints. These issues fall into three main categories: bone disorders, disc disorders, and muscle disorders. In addition, you may have a combination of problems with multiple parts simultaneously. 

Bone-Related TMD

The temporal bone (the socket part) and the mandible (the ball part) can develop degenerative diseases similar to other joints, such as the knee.

• Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative condition caused by use and wear over time. The cartilage which separates the two bones wears away and causes the bones to rub together. This creates inflammation, pain, damage to the bones, and loss of motion.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: The outcomes are similar to osteoarthritis, but the joint is attacked by your body's immune system instead of wear, causing the damage.
• Post-traumatic osteoarthritis: This can happen rapidly or slowly following a traumatic injury to the lower jaw.

Disc-Related TMD

A typical TMJ joint has a disc of cartilage that separates the two bones of the joint and allows the bones to slide easily against each other. However, the disc can become dislodged, inflamed, or stuck in place.

Signs and symptoms of disc-related issues include popping, clicking, lockjaw, and pain when opening and closing your jaw.

Muscle-Related TMD

Each side of your face has four main muscles that open and close your jaw. They are the temporalis, masseter, lateral pterygoid, and medial pterygoid.

• These muscles can become inflamed, injured, or damaged. 
• Muscle pain is often mistaken for pain in the TMJ itself. Therefore, it is essential to properly diagnose the issue to determine the proper treatment.
• Opening or closing your mouth can become difficult or painful if you have muscle inflammation or damage.
• Muscle issues can also be mistaken for headaches, especially if the headaches are most severe in the mornings.

Schedule a consultation for an evaluation. You should call to schedule a consultation with Dr. Nelson at our Winston-Salem office. Since a wide range of issues can occur around the jaw joint area, it is essential to have a skilled dentist evaluate you.

We're here to listen. Our doctors will listen to your concerns and take a detailed history of your symptoms, pain, or discomfort.

Thorough examination. A comprehensive clinical exam will be conducted to examine the bones, muscles, discs, and joints. It is critical to determine what structures are causing your issues because they will dictate the treatment that is most likely to be successful.

What kind of treatment options are available?

An Occlusal Splint (Night Guard)

The most common treatment, to begin with, is an occlusal splint. This is a particular type of night guard that you wear while sleeping. However, there are many different types and styles of splints designed for different causes of your pain. Once your Winston-Salem dentist determines the appropriate variety of splint for your issue, they will take molds of your teeth so our local dental lab can fabricate a custom appliance.

Physical Therapy

Many times physical therapy can help alleviate symptoms of TMD. Physical therapy can include stretching, exercise, and massages for the joint.

Occlusal Equilibration (Bite Adjustment)

Sometimes TMD symptoms are exacerbated by your teeth not fitting together appropriately. The doctor can make tiny, precise adjustments to your bite, known as an occlusal equilibration, which can help alleviate symptoms. 

Palliative Care (Preventive or Protective Care)

The doctor will discuss your history of symptoms and determine the best palliative or preventive care regimen for you. This can include stretching exercises, prescription medications (pain relievers, anti-inflammatory, or muscle relaxing medications), and avoidance of specific jaw movements. 

How much does an occlusal guard (night guard) cost?*

A commonly recommended treatment for TMD is an occlusal guard. This custom-made appliance will position the jaws favorably overnight to prevent TMJ pain, teeth grinding, and tooth shifting. The fee for an occlusal guard (also known as a night guard) at our office is $642.

Can I afford TMJ therapy?

We file all insurance claims for you. Additionally, your Winston-Salem dentist makes dentistry affordable. Therefore, we will work with your policy and provider to maximize your coverage.

Talk to us about financing. We may be able to offer options!

Considerations for the uninsured (cash pay). Ask us about our potential savings for the uninsured and those who pay cash. 

*Fees are quoted from our office's fee schedule and are subject to change. Changes in fees are typically nominal (less than a 3% adjustment).