At Sachem Dental Group, we value both your oral health and your overall well-being. One common issue tied to your smile is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, also known as TMJ disorder, TMD, or TMJD.
TMJ disorder can lead to various symptoms and complications, and its treatment may involve a range of options.
TMJ Disorder Explained
Your TMJ is a hinge joint that moves in several directions. It serves as the connection between your lower jaw and the base of your skull When it becomes strained, is injured, or has internal irregularities, it can lead to a painful case of TMJD.
The causes behind TMJ disorder often include one or a combination of factors, including:
- Bruxism: Teeth grinding or clenching, often during sleep.
- Stress: High levels of stress can lead to increased muscle tension, which may affect the TMJ as well as your neck, shoulders, and back.
- Misaligned Bite: An improper bite alignment—what we call a “malocclusion”—can put excessive strain on the TMJ over time. It’s usually due to your jaw moving irregularly over and over as you try to fit your teeth together.
- Arthritis: Inflammation of the joint due to conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis may trigger TMD symptoms.
- Injury: Traumatic injuries to the jaw can damage the internal cartilage or disc of your TMJ.
TMJD can manifest with a range of symptoms, including jaw pain, headaches, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, ear pain, difficulty in opening and closing your mouth, and others. Thankfully, most successful treatments for TMD are non-surgical!
Costs of Restoring Worn Teeth from TMJ Disorder
One common consequence of untreated TMJ disorder is enamel wear and tooth damage. The constant grinding or clenching of teeth can lead to breaks and chips in your teeth and dental work. Restoring your bite is an essential part of TMJ disorder treatment because of how it “balances” your bite. Depending on your case, the rehabilitation can involve a combination of dental procedures. The cost of each one varies depending on the extent of the damage and the chosen treatment approach. Common dental treatments for restoring worn teeth include:
Dental Crowns: For moderate to severe damage, dental crowns may be necessary to bring your tooth into the proper level of occlusion (biting relationship) with its opposing teeth. The cost of dental crowns in Long Island can vary by several hundred dollars depending on the type of material used.
Fixed Bridges: Dental bridges serve to reinforce the teeth that support them while also filling in the open space that’s created by missing teeth. Like crowns, bridges also help establish proper occlusion and can be made from a variety of materials, impacting their total cost.
Dental Implants: In cases where a tooth is severely damaged and cannot be saved, dental implants may be recommended. The cost of a single dental implant offers one of the best return on investments.
When you visit Sachem Dental Group, we’ll work to create a customized treatment plan that caters to your specific needs, including offering alternative treatments when they are available.
TMJ Treatment Options and Their Costs
The best treatment for TMJ disorder depends on the cause and severity of your condition. Here are some common TMJ treatments:
1. Nightguards
Nightguards, also known as occlusal splints or mouthguards, are often the first line of defense against TMJ disorder, especially if teeth grinding (bruxism) is a contributing factor. These custom-made oral appliances are worn while you sleep to protect your teeth from grinding and alleviate jaw pain.
Cost: The cost of a nightguard can range from $300 to $800 on average, depending on the type and materials used and how it’s made. While this may seem like an initial expense, it can save you thousands of dollars compared to treating worn, broken teeth.
2. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy for TMJ disorder involves exercises and techniques aimed at improving jaw mobility and reducing pain. A physical therapist with expertise in treating TMJ issues can create a personalized treatment plan. It’s often combined with soft tissue massage.
Cost: The cost of physical therapy sessions can vary widely depending on your location and insurance coverage. On average, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 per session.
3. Orthodontic Correction
Orthodontic treatment may be recommended if misaligned teeth or an improper bite contribute to your TMJ disorder. Orthodontic options include braces and clear aligners like Invisalign.
Cost: The cost of orthodontic therapy can range from $3,000 to $7,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your case and the type of orthodontic system or braces you choose.
4. Botox Injections
Botox injections are a minimally invasive treatment alternative for TMJ disorder and frequent migraine headaches. Botox can help relax the muscles around the jaw, reducing pain and tension.
Cost: Getting Botox for TMJ disorder typically cost between $300 and $600 per treatment. Although not permanent, they can offer several months of relief with each treatment.
5. TMJ Surgery
In severe cases of TMJ disorder that do not respond to conservative intervention, surgery may be considered. Surgical procedures for TMJ disorder can include arthrocentesis (joint lavage), arthroscopy, or open joint surgery. They are particularly necessary when there is structural damage inside of the joint itself.
Cost: The cost of TMJ surgery can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the procedure. It can range from a few thousand dollars to several tens of thousands of dollars. It’s important to discuss the potential costs and benefits with your oral surgeon.
Before proceeding with any type of TMJ treatment, you should always consult with a knowledgeable dentist or specialist who can offer professional advice based on your specific case.
TMJ Consultation in Suffolk County
At Sachem Dental Group, we’re committed to providing you with the highest level of care when it comes to TMJ disorder diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect you have TMD or are experiencing any related symptoms, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced dentists in Long Island.