Effective TMJ Disorder Treatment
to Alleviate Pain and Discomfort

John Crisler, DDS, MAGD offers nonsurgical treatments to alleviate the painful effects of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which often renders patients with chronic headaches, neck and jaw pain, and other discomforts. If you have TMJ disorder (TMD), or suspect you may, you can receive an accurate diagnosis and effective TMJ disorder treatment with Dr. John Crisler in Rio Rancho, NM.

What Are the Causes of TMD?

The TMJ connects the lower jaw to the base of the skull, and essentially works as a hinge. When this joint fails to function properly, it leads to pain in the joint and supportive tissues. Injuries to the jaw, arthritis, and grinding or clenching your teeth are common TMD causes. Sometimes TMD is associated with the eruption of wisdom teeth. Other times a misaligned bite due to damaged teeth is to blame. In such cases, while restorative treatments such as dental implants can correct damaged teeth, jaw alignment pain can linger, requiring a dentist with experience in TMD treatment.

TMJ disorder often causes chronic headaches, as well as neck and jaw pain

Common Symptoms

Some TMD sufferers experience symptoms that are debilitating, detracting from their overall quality of life. Stress often triggers teeth clenching and grinding, exacerbating TMD symptoms, which include:

• Pain in the face, neck, shoulders, and upper back
• A popping sound when opening and closing your mouth
• Difficulty opening the mouth wide
• A bite that feels misaligned
• Ringing in the ears
• Swelling on one side of the face
• Tooth damage

If you identify with any of the above, you may have TMD and require specific treatment to alleviate your symptoms. Scheduling a consultation with Dr. Crisler, who is well-versed in the signs and treatment of TMD, will set you on the path to recovery from the associated pain and discomfort.

TMD Treatment Options

During your initial exam, Dr. Crisler will examine your bite, check for signs of joint problems, and potentially take radiographs of the anatomy adjacent to your TMJ. All of this will help determine the position of the mandible to assess proper alignment and positioning of the teeth and jaw joints.

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Many TMJ disorder patients enjoy significant benefits from our non-surgical treatments.

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TMD pain derives from the difference between where the joints strain to be positioned, and where the teeth should be positioned. Since the causes of TMD can vary considerably, each patient will receive an individualized treatment plan to meet their unique needs.

Many TMJ disorder patients enjoy significant benefits from our non-surgical treatments, which include:

• Orthotic splints
• Enamel reshaping
• Dental crowns
• Braces
• Night guards

How Dr. Crisler Can Help

Dr. Crisler completed five years of study specifically related to TMJ issues and therapy, making him well-prepared to properly diagnose and treat your TMD. He follows the principles of the OBI Foundation for Bioesthetic Dentistry, which focus on diagnosing problems associated with tooth wear, rather than concentrating on TMD symptoms. The goal of this approach is to establish harmony between each component of the system that allows you to chew.

Find Relief from TMD

Dr. John Crisler can provide options for TMJ disorder treatment to ensure you receive care that focuses on restoring balance to your bite and jaw for long-term relief. Contact our dental practice today to find out how Dr. Crisler’s specialized TMD training can help alleviate your pain and discomfort.