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23 April 2024

TMJ Pain: What Is It, Where Does It Come From, and How to Treat It? Dr. Tom Meyer Explains

TMJ pain can be more than just a nuisance—it can fundamentally disrupt your daily life. From excruciating discomfort that impedes your ability to enjoy meals and converse, to the severe pain that can lead to missed workdays and a dwindling social life, the impact of TMJ disorders is profound and pervasive. At Meyer Dental Group in Mount Prospect, TMJ dentist Dr. Tom Meyer has over two decades of experience addressing this debilitating condition with advanced TMJ treatment options.


How TMJ Disorders Affect Your Life

Individuals suffering from TMJ disorders often experience a range of symptoms that can severely affect their overall quality of life. The pain can be relentless, making it difficult to eat, laugh, or even speak without discomfort. This constant pain can lead to significant absences from work, as the discomfort makes it challenging to focus or maintain productivity. Social interactions also suffer as the pain and discomfort can make sufferers self-conscious or irritable, leading to withdrawal from social activities and isolation.


Common Symptoms and Causes of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders manifest through various symptoms that can affect different aspects of your life.

The most common TMJ symptoms include:

  • Jaw pain and tenderness
  • Aching pain around and in the ear
  • Difficulty chewing or discomfort while chewing
  • Facial pain
  • Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth
  • Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint when moving the mouth

The causes of TMJ disorders are diverse and often multi-factorial. These can include:

  • Jaw injuries or other types of physical trauma
  • Erosion of the joint
  • Autoimmune diseases
  • Dental surgery
  • Genetics
  • Hormonal changes
  • Stress, which can lead to habits such as teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching

Understanding that TMJ disorders can stem from a variety of sources is crucial in developing effective treatment plans. This complexity means that successful treatment requires a holistic approach, considering not just the physical symptoms but also lifestyle and environmental factors.

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Dr. Tom Meyer’s Expertise in TMJ Treatment

At Meyer Dental Group, Dr. Tom Meyer, a recognized TMJ specialist in Mount Prospect, uses his extensive knowledge and expertise to diagnose and treat TMJ disorders effectively. Known for his meticulous approach and compassionate care, Dr. Meyer has become a beacon of relief for many suffering from TMJ pain in and around Chicago.

With more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Meyer understands the intricacies of TMJ disorders and employs a comprehensive strategy tailored to each patient’s unique needs. His treatments may include:

  • Custom-fitted oral appliances to alleviate pressure on the joint
  • Physical therapy techniques aimed at strengthening the jaw muscles and increasing mobility
  • Medications to manage pain and reduce inflammation
  • Restoring the bite to the correct state through either orthodontics and/or restorative treatment

Dr. Meyer's commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in dental medicine ensures that his patients receive the most effective and innovative care available.


Take Action Against TMJ Pain Today

Living with TMJ pain doesn’t have to be your reality. If you are experiencing symptoms of a TMJ disorder and are looking for effective relief, Dr. Tom Meyer and the team at Meyer Dental Group are here to help. As a leading TMJ dentist in Mount ProspectDr. Meyer’s approach is not just about treating the symptoms but about finding and addressing the root causes of your discomfort.

Don’t let TMJ pain control your life. Contact Dr. Meyer today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and take the first step towards reclaiming your comfort and wellbeing. With the right care and expertise, you can start your journey back to a pain-free life and enjoy the daily activities that TMJ pain has been keeping you from.

Ready to say goodbye to jaw pain and hello to relief? Call or visit Meyer Dental Group in Mount Prospect today and schedule your appointment with TMJ specialist Dr. Tom Meyer. It’s time to treat your TMJ pain with the care and expertise it deserves. Let us help you smile, eat, and talk with confidence again!

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