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Get Relief from Jaw Pain & TMJ Disorders
Does your jaw pop, click, or lock when you open your mouth? Do you experience jaw pain, headaches, or stiffness that makes eating or speaking uncomfortable? If so, you may be dealing with TMJ disorder (TMD)—a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jaw to your skull.
At Hansen Orthodontics in Wichita, KS, Dr. Hansen provides effective TMJ treatment to help relieve discomfort, improve jaw function, and restore your quality of life. If your jaw is constantly popping or causing pain, it’s time to find relief!
Why Does Your Jaw Pop or Click?
A popping or clicking jaw is one of the most common symptoms of TMJ disorder. This occurs when the jaw joint becomes misaligned, inflamed, or overworked. The temporomandibular joint allows you to chew, speak, and move your mouth, but when it isn’t functioning properly, it can lead to chronic discomfort and restricted movement.
Common Causes of TMJ Disorders
- Teeth grinding (bruxism) – Clenching or grinding your teeth (especially at night) can put stress on the TMJ.
- Jaw misalignment – An improper bite or uneven jaw movement can lead to joint dysfunction.
- Stress and tension – Increased stress often leads to jaw clenching, which can worsen TMJ symptoms.
- Injury or trauma – A direct blow to the jaw or face can damage the TMJ.
- Arthritis – Inflammation in the joint due to arthritis can cause pain and limited movement.
If your jaw pops, clicks, locks, or hurts frequently, it’s important to seek treatment before symptoms worsen.
TMJ Symptoms: More Than Just a Popping Jaw
TMJ disorders can cause a variety of painful and frustrating symptoms, including:
- Jaw pain or tenderness (especially in the morning or after chewing)
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Ear pain, ringing, or a feeling of fullness
- Difficulty chewing or feeling like your bite is “off”
- Jaw locking or stiffness that makes it hard to open your mouth fully
Ignoring TMJ symptoms can lead to worsening pain, difficulty eating, and long-term damage to your jaw joint. Seeking professional TMJ treatment in Wichita, KS, can help prevent complications and provide lasting relief.
TMJ Treatment Options at Hansen Orthodontics
At Hansen Orthodontics, Dr. Hansen takes a personalized approach to TMJ treatment, focusing on relieving pain, improving jaw function, and preventing long-term damage.
1. Custom TMJ Nightguards & Splints
If teeth grinding or jaw clenching is contributing to your TMJ pain, a custom-made nightguard or splint can help. These appliances:
- Protect your teeth from grinding damage
- Reduce strain on the jaw joint
- Encourage proper jaw positioning while you sleep
2. Orthodontic Treatment for Jaw Alignment
A misaligned bite can increase stress on the TMJ, causing pain and dysfunction. Braces or Invisalign may be recommended to correct alignment issues and improve jaw function over time.
3. Jaw Exercises & Relaxation Techniques
Dr. Hansen may recommend jaw exercises and stress management techniques to help relax the TMJ and strengthen the surrounding muscles. This can be especially beneficial for patients who clench their jaw due to stress.
4. Bite Adjustments
In some cases, minor adjustments to the teeth or bite may help reduce TMJ discomfort and improve jaw function. This is often done in combination with other treatments.
5. Lifestyle Changes & At-Home Remedies
In addition to in-office treatments, there are simple things you can do at home to manage TMJ pain:
- Apply ice or heat to soothe sore jaw muscles.
- Avoid chewing gum and hard foods that strain the jaw.
- Practice good posture to reduce tension in the neck and jaw.
- Reduce stress through deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching.
Find Relief from TMJ Pain in Wichita, KS
If your jaw is constantly popping, clicking, or causing discomfort, don’t ignore the signs of TMJ disorder. Dr. Hansen and the team at Hansen Orthodontics provide expert TMJ treatment in Wichita, KS, to help you feel better and regain normal jaw function.
