Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a condition that affects up to 15% of all Americans. Upon misalignment, the temporomandibular joints that attach your jaw to your skull can cause pain, discomfort, and restricted mobility.

TMD can be difficult to detect on your own, given how many different symptoms can stem from it. For a definitive diagnosis and top-level care, visit a trusted TMJ Dentist in Las Vegas with substantial experience. We’ve compiled a list of symptoms prevalent in the patients we’ve treated at our practice:

  • Frequent headaches, earaches, and jaw aches
  • Pain or difficulties chewing
  • Facial pain
  • Jaw locking up or clicking often
  • Pain in shoulders and neck
  • Teeth grinding
  • Uneven or noticeably different bite pattern
Woman dressed in executive suit holding her face in noticeable pain resulting from TMJ in Las Vegas.

TMD Treatment Options

For mild conditions of TMD, patients do not need treatment, as the body will slowly correct itself. However, if your case is like most others, you will require some form of treatment. The following methods aim to fix the underlying issues:

  • Personalized retainers
  • Behavioral therapy
  • Realignment of the jaw
  • Replacing crowns, teeth, implants, or fillings
  • Clear aligners or traditional braces

Clear aligners function in the same way as braces, but neither can correct advanced forms of TMD. Therefore, additional medications are available, including NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), antidepressants, muscles relaxers, corticosteroids, and BOTOX®.

Many patients ask if they need surgery, and the answer is almost always no. In reality, very few people need surgery, as all TMD dentists view it as a last resort.

TMD Specialists, Drs. Chin and Pharar

Dr. Robert Chin and Dr. Jessica Pharar are both neuromuscular specialists who have been helping patients with TMD symptoms for over 20 years. They’re one of the only offices with the required training and cutting-edge technology to treat TMD cases successfully.

Drs. Chin and Pharar utilize computerized jaw imaging and EMG equipment to expertly and painlessly treat patients suffering from TMD symptoms. This equipment enables them to determine the optimal jaw position and aids in reconstructing your natural functionality.

The time to act is now if you’re suffering from TMD. Why live with pain and discomfort for longer than necessary? We invite you to sit down with us to discuss the best treatment plan for you. Contact us today.