What Is TMJ Therapy?
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, commonly referred to as TMD, affects the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint is misaligned or overworked, it can lead to symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, earaches, and difficulty chewing. At Bloom Holistic Dentistry, we take a comprehensive, whole-body approach to treating TMJ issues, focusing on minimally invasive techniques that promote long-term relief and healing.
Signs You May Have TMJ Disorder
TMJ dysfunction can present in various ways. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent jaw pain or soreness
- Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
- Limited jaw movement or lockjaw
- Chronic headaches or migraines
- Facial pain or tenderness
- Ear pain or ringing (tinnitus)
- Neck and shoulder discomfort
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, an evaluation with our holistic dental team can help determine the best course of treatment.
Our Holistic Approach to TMJ Therapy
At Bloom Holistic Dentistry, we focus on treating the root causes of TMJ disorder rather than just masking the symptoms. Our approach includes:
- Comprehensive Diagnosis: We use advanced diagnostic tools, including digital scanning and cone beam CT scans, to assess jaw alignment, muscle tension, and airway health.
- Custom TMJ Appliances: Nightguards, occlusal splints, and mandibular repositioning devices can help alleviate stress on the jaw joint and prevent teeth grinding (bruxism). Our occlusal and sports guards are custom-fitted to provide maximum comfort and effectiveness.
- Myofunctional Therapy: Since poor tongue posture and muscle imbalances can contribute to TMJ pain, we may recommend myofunctional therapy to retrain the muscles involved in chewing and breathing.
- Airway and Sleep Evaluations: Many patients with TMJ disorder also suffer from sleep-disordered breathing. Our team offers home sleep testing to identify underlying issues, such as sleep apnea, that may be worsening TMJ symptoms.
- Ozone Therapy and Biocompatible Treatments: As part of our commitment to holistic care, we integrate ozone therapy to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing in the TMJ area. We also prioritize biocompatible materials for all dental treatments.
Why Choose Bloom Holistic Dentistry for TMJ Treatment?
Our practice is built on the philosophy that oral health is deeply connected to overall wellness. Unlike conventional treatments that may rely on pain medication or surgery, we emphasize natural, minimally invasive solutions that address the root causes of TMJ disorder.
Dr. Zahra Punjani, DMD, is SMART-certified and trained in airway-focused dentistry, allowing her to provide comprehensive, whole-body treatment plans for TMJ-related concerns.
Schedule a Consultation for TMJ Therapy in Atlanta
If TMJ pain is interfering with your daily life, relief is possible. Contact Bloom Holistic Dentistry to schedule a consultation and explore holistic TMJ treatment options. We proudly serve patients throughout Atlanta and the surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Therapy
- How do I know if I have TMJ disorder?: Common signs of TMJ disorder include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, frequent headaches, earaches, and difficulty opening or closing your mouth. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, a consultation at Bloom Holistic Dentistry can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
- What causes TMJ disorder?: TMJ issues can arise from a variety of factors, including teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw misalignment, stress-related muscle tension, poor posture, airway issues, and past injuries. Our holistic approach focuses on identifying and treating the root cause rather than just managing symptoms.
- Can TMJ disorder go away on its own?: Mild cases of TMJ discomfort may improve with self-care techniques, such as stress management and avoiding hard or chewy foods. However, chronic TMJ disorder typically requires professional treatment to prevent worsening symptoms and long-term damage.
- What are the treatment options for TMJ disorder?: At Bloom Holistic Dentistry, we offer a range of non-invasive treatments, including custom oral appliances, myofunctional therapy, ozone therapy, and airway assessments to address underlying causes.
- Can TMJ disorder affect my sleep?: Yes, TMJ disorder is often linked to sleep-disordered breathing and conditions like sleep apnea. We offer home sleep testing to assess whether airway issues are contributing to your TMJ symptoms.