Do you wake up with jaw or tooth pain? Do your teeth appear to be flat or worn? You may have a TMJ disorder. Temporomandibular joint disorders are caused by the TMJ or the joints that connect the skull and the lower jaw, aiding in biting and chewing.
When these joints are under stress or pressure, patients can experience painful and uncomfortable TMD symptoms. Dr. Jennifer Kalochie can help. She is a Dawson-trained dentist who specializes in occlusion problems or uneven bites. In our Yardley, PA, dental office, Dr. Kalochie offers restorative dentistry solutions with comprehensive TMJ treatment.
Dr. Kalochie has completed the Dawson Academy Core Curriculum. When evaluating your needs, she considers all aspects of your dental health, including the proper alignment of the TMJ. With her training g and experience, Dr. Kalochie helps patients with bite problems establish a more even and comfortable bite through personalized dental care.
Using the Dawson principles of Complete Dentistry, Dr. Kalochie seeks to identify the underlying cause of a TMJ disorder instead of treating it symptomatically. There is a range of possible causes for TMJ, from genetics to trauma and malocclusion. Dr. Kalochie thoroughly evaluates the teeth, gums, and jaw joints to understand how they interact and where there is a problem. This is the foundation for a lasting result supporting your long-term dental health.
TMJ Symptoms
There are multiple common signs of TMD, including:
- Jaw pain and tenderness
- Tooth pain and sensitivity
- Joint pain when yawning or chewing
- Teeth clenching and grinding (Bruxism)
- Chronic headaches and migraines
- Clicking or popping noises in the jaw
- Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
- Excessive tooth wear
- Neck, head, or shoulder pain
Please contact our Yardley dentist office and schedule an appointment if you have any of these symptoms. She will thoroughly examine your smile and help you determine the right options to meet your needs.
TMJ Treatment in Yardley, PA
Nightguards are custom-made appliances that Dr. Kalochie provides patients. Wearing a nightguard at night prevents further tooth wear and damage. Additionally, wearing this oral appliance relieves pressure from the jaw joints and muscles. A custom nightguard allows patients to sleep comfortably without morning headaches or migraines. Dr. Kalochie will recommend oral surgery for patients with severe TMJ disorders. She will refer patients to specialists as needed.
Dr. Kalochie may also recommend physical therapy for patients with TMD. She works closely with a local physical therapist whose practice is limited to treating TMJ Disorders. Patients learn the best exercises to relax their jaw and facial muscles during physical therapy. They may also benefit from a soft diet for several weeks to relieve pressure on the jaw.
Request a Dental Appointment
Have you noticed the symptoms of TMD? Contact Dr. Kalochie today at 267-592-3552. You may also schedule a dental consultation with Dr. Kalochie on our website.
Do you have questions or concerns about TMJ treatment options? Let Dr. Kalochie know at your next appointment.