Dr. Gelfand is very passionate about helping patients who suffer from pain.
Our Dawson Dental offices welcome patients who are in search of relief from the pain associated with migraine headaches, daily headaches, chronic pain, or TMD/ Temporomandibular joint issues. We understand what it’s like to constantly deal with this type of discomfort and the disappointment or frustration when other treatments fail.
Occasional TMJ pain is common for most people, especially if you have a stressful day or aren’t sleeping well. But if it becomes so severe that it impacts your day-to-day activities, you could have TMJ disorder (TMD.)
The jaw joint, also known as the temporomandibular joint, is one of the most flexible joints in the body. It serves an important role in connecting the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull (temporal bone).
"Dawson has changed my enjoyment in life"
Donna, a TMJ Patient
Do you have a TMJ disorder?
When the jaw is misaligned, a host of painful and limiting symptoms may occur which can be related to an incorrect bite. It can be debilitating, not to mention the future oral health problems that arise if left untreated. That’s why it’s vital to seek help sooner rather than later when suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
If you answer YES to any of the following symptoms, you may be a candidate for TMJ therapy:
- Pain or tenderness in your jaw?
- Difficulty chewing or experience pain when chewing?
- Locking or popping of the jaw, difficulty opening or closing your mouth?
- Grinding or clenching your teeth?
- Headaches or neck aches?
- Temple area pain?
- Do you have sensitive, worn, loose or broken teeth?
In some patients, Botox can be effective for treating temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ). Botox which is a neurotoxin protein can help treat jaw tension, lockjaw, and headaches due to teeth grinding. At Dawson, the treatment can be done in-office and typically takes between 10 and 30 minutes and you can expect to return to your normal activities as soon as you leave the office. The benefits of this treatment for people suffering from pain and soreness include substantial relief and it helps to protect your dental health as excessive grinding can cause worn down teeth, tooth fractures, and damaged gums. 3-4 treatments are usually needed.
Your TMJ treatment options depend on the circumstances of your condition. In some cases, the uncomfortable symptoms can be relieved by a nighttime grinding appliance to help protect the muscles, teeth, and jaw joints from the forces of nighttime grinding.
Patients whose TMJ is caused by bite conditions or significant jaw alignment problems that are not alleviated by the use of a nighttime grinding appliance may benefit from the use of an oral appliance worn during the day.
Dentists have a detailed understanding of how the teeth, jaws, and TMJ work together. During your dental exam, we’ll feel either side of your TMJ to assess whether it’s moving normally or shows signs of a joint disorder. Let your Dawson dentist know if symptoms persist for more than a few days.
Neuromuscular Dentistry
Neuromuscular Dentistry focuses on the muscles surrounding the head and neck — because 90% of pain, including TMJ, comes from muscle. It is predictable, completely reversible, and without the side effects of medications that are commonly used to treat these conditions. Dr. Gelfand has trained extensively in this area.
Neuromuscular dentistry uses sophisticated instrumentation to evaluate how one’s jaw muscles are working and where they would be most comfortable. At Dawson, our process for finding “a home” for a patient’s bite (how the teeth come together) is precisely measurable. Based on these results, a neuromuscular orthotic will be made to fit you specifically.
Book Your Free Consultation
We invite you to book a complimentary consultation so we can better understand your dental concerns, discuss the available treatment options and answer any questions you may have. We look forward to meeting you!