Dr. Zachary Sisler has received specialized training from The Dawson Academy for the comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of bite dysfunction and TMJ disorders. Dr. Sisler will work with you to relieve any tension you may feel and develop a plan based on your oral health needs. People who suffer from chronic headaches, migraines, and pain in the jaw area may not realize their symptoms may be caused by a TMJ related issue.
About TMJ Disorders
TMJ refers to symptoms associated with dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Tension or pressure in the jaw joint may lead to neck and ear pain, frequent headaches, and jaw pain. The temporomandibular joint is responsible for connecting the upper and lower jaw and opening and closing the mouth. It is imperative that the TMJ joint works correctly to ensure patients have a functional, healthy and comfortable bite.
Cause of TMJ Disorders
There are a variety of reason a patient may be suffering from a TMJ disorder. However, Dr. Sisler will perform a comprehensive exam to get to the root of the problem. Finding the cause of your TMJ pain can help Dr. Sisler provide more concise and comprehensive care for long-term relief of TMJ pain and lasting dental health.
Some of the common factors of TMJ pain include:
- Trauma to the head, neck, or face
- Injury to the TMJ joint or arthritis
- Hormonal changes or imbalances
- Malocclusion
- Stress
TMJ Symptoms
TMJ symptoms vary from patient to patient. TMJ symptoms may even emulate other medical conditions so it is recommended that you schedule a visit with us if you have concerns about your dental health.
Common symptoms of TMJ disorder include:
- Migraines
- Shoulder, neck, and face pain
- Clicking or popping when opening or closing jaw
- Locked jaw or limited mobility in the jaw joint
- Sensitive teeth
- Chipped, worn or flattened teeth
- Teeth shifting in and out of position
- Teeth clenching
- Teeth grinding
- Chronic earaches
TMJ Treatment Therapy
Dr. Sisler is specially trained in diagnosing TMJ disorder and works with advanced dental technology and high-quality materials to help treat TMJ disorders. His goal is to correctly and naturally bring the head, neck, jaw, and bite into their proper alignment. He will complete a comprehensive evaluation to look for any signs of imbalance or dysfunction on the bite and muscle tension in the jaw. After the assessment is complete, Dr. Sisler will discuss the most appropriate treatment options to address symptoms and properly align your head, neck, jaw, and teeth.
TMJ treatment can include:
- TMJ Mouth Guard- A TMJ mouth guard is a removable oral guard that helps to keep the teeth and jaw in their proper alignment. Most patients usually wear the guard to sleep. Splints, mouth guards, and night guards are a valuable option to help lessen symptoms of TMJ dysfunction and damage to teeth.
- Bite Correction Procedures- If necessary, Dr. Sisler may perform occlusal equilibration. Occlusal equilibration, or TMJ correction, is the process of gently adjusting the alignment of the teeth. The goal of this procedure is to align teeth so that they make contact with one another.
- Botox Therapeutic– Botox injections can be used to relieve muscle tension in the face and jaw. The injections will target specific muscle groups to relax related muscles and reduce the experience of jaw pain or tension headaches. Many patients find relief from TMJ-related symptoms with the help of Botox injections.